Birmingham Parent Magazine - February 2015

FREE

ANNUAL

CAMP ISSUE

THE PREMIER PARENTING MAGAZINE FOR CENTRAL ALABAMA

FEBRUARY 2015

SUMMER CAMP 101

10 Day Camp

TIPS BEFORE

Starts

2015

camp

directory VISIT PAGE 14

Help Finding the Right

“AWAY” CAMP

THE FIRST DENTAL VISIT: What You Need to Know

SELMA TO

MONTGOMERY: March Celebrates 50 Years

CAMP

E M CO O T

FUN

CREATIVITY

P L A Y

LEARN

EXPERIMENTS For a full schedule of Spring Break and Summer Camps, visit us at mcwane.org and register today.

200 19th STREET NORTH • BIRMINGHAM, AL • (205) 714-8300 • WWW.MCWANE.ORG

ArtPlay presents Make It Happen Performing Ensemble’s

The Clever George Washington Carver In Honor of Black History Month

Sat » Feb 21»10 & 11:30am ALYSSTEPHENS.ORG » 205.975.2787 »

Do you know what your kids want to do this summer?

ONLIN E

NOW

B I R M I N G H A M PA R E N T ’ S

VIRTUAL

2015

VIRTUAL CAMP EXPO ONLINE NOW VIsit www.birminghamparent.com VISIT OUR CAMPS ONLINE, SEE PICS, VIDEOS & GO TO THEIR SITES!

EDITOR'S NOTE 3590-B Hwy. 31 S. #289 Pelham, AL 35124 205-987-7700 205-987-7600 FAX www.birminghamparent.com

editorial

Welcome to Our Annual Camp Issue!

Publishers David & Carol Evans Editor Carol Muse Evans Associate Editor Lori Chandler Pruitt Office Assistant Bethany Adams Calendar Lori Chandler Pruitt Contributors Dr. Vivian Friedman, Denise Yearian, Gayla Grace, Joyce Koppang MD, Charles Ghigna

B I R M I N G H A M PA R E N T ’ S

BIRMINGHAM PARENT’S

VIRTUAL

2015

I

2015

t’s that time again – our annual camp-focused issue is here! In this issue you’ll fi nd great information about going to camp, our annual camp directory, and of course, a slew of great camp advertisers who have invested in this issue and have a lot to offer to your camper this spring and summer.

Also, our annual Camp Expo event is back home! Our 22nd annual expo will be held at Brookwood Village on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2015 (Valentine’s Day) from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission to this fun day is FREE. Come shop at Brookwood Village for your Valentine’s Day gifts and fi nd out what your child might want to do this summer and/ or spring break! From day camps, to specialty camps, to away camps, there’s something here for every child and every budget. Great giveaways all day, too, and local entertainment in front of Belk.

Can’t make the expo? Be sure to check out our “Virtual Camp Expo 2015” at www. birminghamparent.com. Click on the Virtual Camp Expo button on the right and fi nd information about great camps for your child, pricing, maps, activities, accreditation information and hot links directly to the camp websites.

February is also National Dental Hygiene Month. Check out Paige Townley’s story about your child’s fi rst dental visit with comments from many area pediatric dentists.

And Lori Pruitt’s article on the Selma to Montgomery march – celebrating Black History Month – ties in to the popular Academy-Award-nominated movie, Selma.

Don’t miss our popular calendar of events for fun things to do all month. Have a great February. It’s a little month with a lot to do!

Carol Muse Evans, Publisher/Editor carol@birminghamparent.com

4 | birminghamparent | february 2015

sales Account Executives Kayla Fricks Webmaster Digital Doo-Wop

art & production Art Director Hilary Moreno Distribution T&P Deliveries Legal Counsel Balch & Bingham LLP

BIRMINGHAM PARENT IS A PUBLICATION OF EVANS PUBLISHING, LLC. Publishers: Carol Muse Evans, David K. Evans Sr. Birmingham Parent (EIN20-0694149) is published monthly by Evans Publishing LLC. www.birminghamparent.com or editor@ birminghamparent.com. Birmingham Parent is © 2013 by Evans Publishing LLC. Family Connections Media ©2011 by Evans Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Editorial submissions are welcome. For back issues, please send a self-addressed 10” x 13” envelope with $4 for postage and handling.

FEBRUARY2015 FREE

ANNUAL

CAMP ISSUE

THE PREMIER PARENTING MAGAZINE FOR CENTRAL ALABAMA

Finding the Right

FOR YOUR CHILD

22

ANNUAL

“AWAY CAMP”

CAMP ISSUE

FEBRUARY 2015

20 TIPS 12 10 Day Camp

SUMMER CAMP 101

Help Finding the Right

“AWAY” CAMP

BEFORE

Starts

THE FIRST DENTAL VISIT: What You Need to Know

SELMA

TO MONTGOMERY: March Celebrates 50 Years

22 26 34

2015

camp

directory VISIT PAGE 14

departments

04 07 08 11 29 30 36 44

34

SELMA TO MONTGOMERY: CELEBRATES 50 YEARS

20

SUMMER CAMP 101

26

THE FIRST DENTAL VISIT: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

ON THE COVER: Grey, 9, and Maggie, 5, and their dog Wallace are planning their summer camp adventures now.

PHOTO BY KIM BRANTLEY PHOTOGRAPY.

6 | birminghamparent | february 2015

Editor’s Note Parenting with Dr. Friedman Short Stuff School News February 2015 Calendar of Events A Page in a Book: The Gifts of Grandparents Plan a "Royal" Baby Shower for the Mom-to-Be Ask the Specialist: How Can I Build Heart Healthy Family Habits?

12

10 TIPS BEFORE DAY CAMP STARTS

parenting

Parenting with Dr. Friedman

Q:

I have an 11-year-old son with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. He is on medication and is doing well in school and with friends. Yet over the past several years, he has gone through periods where he will pick the scabs of abrasions and won’t let them heal for a week or two. Then he will suddenly stop. I did the same thing as a child. Last summer he got into poison ivy. When we found out that none of his close friends were to be in his class for this year he seemed OK at first, but then picked at every scab. He was fine once school started but the destructive behavior was his initial reaction to disappointment and change. I am a compulsive overeater and I don’t want him to turn to unhealthy ways to cope with stress. How do we as parents teach our children healthy ways to cope with stress when they are nervous or worried about something?

A:

Children learn by example and from what they are told. The parent that responds with anxiety and worry to stress and change is more likely to have a child who models that behavior.

If you can control your own response to crises, your son might gradually respond to challenges with less upset.

Catch yourself when your fi rst reaction to a situation is overly intense. Give yourself a cue word such as “pause” to interfere with your impulse to catastrophize. Tone down your response by thinking through other possible responses and outcomes.

Once a child has a worried style, you can use what psychologists call “cognitive behavior therapy” to attempt to alter the child’s way of thinking. Th is involves rationally thinking about the situation in a different way. For example, a person who is bothering your child might be seen as a mosquito – very annoying but very small and easily brushed away. The new class might be viewed as many smiling faces and

potential new friends. By changing the way the child thinks about the problem, you can sometimes lessen his anxiety. By teaching him to actively reformulate his problem, you teach him skills to cope with new variations of the stresses in his life.

safe side of the cage. By empowering your son, you can reduce his stress symptoms.

While medication is not the fi rst or only way to cope with problems, it can sometimes be a part of the treatment. Your child has symptoms of anxiety and might benefit from

“I can’t always change the reality, but I can always change how I feel about it.”

Teach your son to say, “I can’t always change the reality, but I can always change how I feel about it.” The fact that he doesn’t have friends in his new class on the fi rst day of school won’t change, but if he feels optimistic about making friends, he will feel better.

Make him see the problem as one that is in his control. Rats placed in a cage where they get shocked develop ulcers when they have no control over the shock, but they don’t develop ulcers when they can push a button to end the shock or jump over a fence to a

F ASA

a consultation with a child psychiatrist or his pediatrician to consider anti-anxiety medication. Generally, medication works best when combined with psychotherapy.

Vivian K. Friedman Ph. D. is a child and family psychologist at UAB, Department of Psychiatry. Send questions for response in this column to Viviankf@gmail.com. No personal replies are sent.

2015 ADVENTURES IN SUMMER LEARNING Stimulating and engaging Summer Camps in Creative Writing, Dance, Music, Theatre, Visual Arts, Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Game Programming and Engineering.

See our website in March for camp descriptions, dates, times, fees and online registration at

ALABAMA SCHOOL OF FINE ARTS 1800 Reverend Abraham Woods, Jr. Boulevard

www.asfa.k12.al.us Birmingham, AL 35203 205.252.9241 www.asfa.k12.al.us birminghamparent.com | 7

Photo by Rebecca C. Miller

Photo courtesy of Roy Downs Calera Library

short stuff

Fairy Tale Ball at Calera Library set for Feb. 21

The Birmingham Zoo Receives $1 Million for Capital Campaign

Experience the magic as your child’s beloved fairy tales come to life at the 7th annual Fairy Tale Ball at the Roy Downs Calera Library on Saturday, Feb. 21 from 1-3pm for the preschool ball, and 5-7 p.m. for the evening ball.

Admission is free.

For the first time ever, superheroes will also make an appearance at the Fairy Tale Ball. Explore the superhero’s universe, or climb through Spiderman’s Web. Make your own super hero mask.

Draw on the sidewalks with Mary Poppins and her friend Burt. Dance in the princess ballroom with Anna, Elsa, Cinderella and more. There will be a free hayride with the favorite characters through the “enchanted forest” behind the library. Visit with 38 fairytale characters, and don’t forget the camera!

For more information, contact the Calera library at 205-668-7200 or jgreathouse@calera.org. Find them on Facebook as Friends of the Calera Public Library. The library is located at 9700 Highway 25, Calera, AL 35040.

The Birmingham Zoo recently was awarded a $1 million grant from the Hugh Kaul Foundation for the Zoo’s Capital Campaign.

The funds will be put toward the $15 million campaign that will transform the front entrance, create the Hugh Kaul entrance plaza that will include a state-of-the-art classroom, community park area and a new Asian Passage exhibit to house tigers, orangutans and siamang apes.

The Zoo also recently received grants for $500,000 from the LinnHenley Charitable Trust, $300,000 from the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham, $300,000 from the Tom and Julia Crawford Foundation and $10,000 from the Walker Area Community Foundation. For more information about the Birmingham Zoo, please visit the Zoo on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter, or birminghamzoo.com.

Researchers ID Facial Measurements for Autism Using advanced three-dimensional imaging and statistical analysis techniques, researchers at the University of Missouri have identified facial measurements in children with autism that may lead to a screening tool for young children and provide clues to its genetic causes.

Autism is a spectrum of closely related disorders diagnosed in patients who exhibit a shared core of symptoms, including delays in learning to communicate and interact socially. Early detection of autism in children is the key for treatments to be most effective and produce the best outcomes. “We want to detect the specific facial traits of the face of a child with autism,” says Ye Duan, associate professor of computer science in the College of Engineering at MU. “Doing so might help us define the facial structures common to children with autism and potentially enable early screening for the disorder.”

The group’s analyses revealed three distinct subgroups of children with autism who had similar measurement patterns in their facial features. These subgroups also shared similarities in the type and severity of their autism symptoms.

For more information, visit http://engineering. missouri.edu/2014/12/mu-researchers-close-inon-possible-autism-detection-method/.

WOMEN’S HEALTH SPECIALISTS of BIRMINGHAM

OB/GYN SERVICES at ST. VINCENTS

DR. ALISON HEATON & DR. BILL HUDSON

8 | birminghamparent | february 2015

e Welcom

DR. BETHANY CAMPBELL & DR. KATIE PETRO McKINNEY

CALL TODAY 205-536-7676

short stuff

Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama (GSNCA) will begin learning the lasting skills that will guide them throughout their lives as the 2015 Girl Scout Cookie Program kicks off Friday, February 6th. On this date girls will have cookies on-hand to sell immediately, and many will have cookie booths set up at retail stores throughout NorthCentral Alabama. The public can fi nd cookies by searching for a booth sale on the Cookie Locator at girlscoutcookies.org or downloading the Girl Scout Cookie Finder Mobile App for Apple and Android.

Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama are offering two new varieties of cookies this year. Rah-Rah Raisins are hearty oatmeal cookies with plump raisins and Greek yogurt-flavored chunks.

Toffee-tastic are rich, buttery cookies packed with golden toffee bits bursting with flavor. And guess what? Toffee-tastic is gluten free!

Girl Scouts will also offer all-time favorites: Th in Mints, Samoas, Trefoils, Tagalongs, Do-si-dos and Savannah Smiles. Each box sells for $3.50. All eight varieties of Girl Scout Cookies contain zero grams of trans fat. Girl Scout cookies are a low-sodium treat, and some varieties weigh in at only 28 calories (Savannah Smiles) and 40 calories (Th in Mints) per cookie!

You can also purchase cookies as part of the Cookies for the Troops campaign, where you can have your cookies sent overseas to service members. GSNCA will also participate in the ‘Buy 5’ campaign. For every five packages a customer purchases, they receive one Buy 5 promotion card. At the end of the cookie sale, two customers will be drawn to win FIVE CASES of cookies.

Th rough the Girl Scout Cookie Program, girls take part in the largest girl-run business in the world. They learn the 5 Skills: goal setting, decision making, money management, people skills and business ethics. They make a plan and decide where their cookie money will go.

All the revenue earned—every penny after paying the baker— stays with GSNCA. Councils use cookie revenue to supply essential services to troops, groups and girls, such as providing program resources and communication support, training adult volunteers and conducting events. As part of their experience in any Girl Scout product sale program, girls can earn official Girl Scout awards at every level of Girl Scouting, including cookie and fi nancial literacy badges and the annual Cookie Activity Pin.

ME

Your Favorite Cookies are Coming This Month

Vegan Thin

Cookies

ET

THE

Mints ®

covered in Crisp wafersting made with chocolaty coa peppermint natural oil of

Do-si-dos® Crunchy oatmeal sandwich cookies with creamy peanut butter filling

Gluten-free

Toffee-tastic® Toffee-tastic Girl Scout Cookies are crispy, buttery cookies packed with golden toffee bits.

Samoas ®

coated in Crisp cookiesinkled with caramenl, spr t, and striped onu toasted coc colaty coating with dark cho

Tagalong

s®

Crispy coo peanut but kies layered with ter and a chocolaty covered with coating

Savannah Smiles Crisp, zesty lemon wedge cookies dusted with powdered sugar

s®

Rah-Rah Raisin

®

Trefoils® Traditional shortbread cookies

cookies with Hearty oatmeal and Greek plump raisins chunks yogurt-flavored

GIRL SCOUTS OF NORTH-CENTRAL ALABAMA 1-800-734-4541 info@girlscoutsnca.org

For more information, call 800-734-4541 or visit girlscoutsnca.org.

thefacepaintingfairy@yahoo.com www.facebook.com/Thefacepaintingfairy 205-527-2134

When you imagine their future - Imagine a beautiful smile!

Three convenient locations to serve you!

Deborah A Sema D.M.D., M.S. specialist in orthodontics

205-942-2270

www.ovortho.com

Great smiles for children... and Mom & Dad Too!

CLEAR BRACES, INVISALIGN, AND INVISALIGN TEEN

415 West Oxmoor Road Birmingham 5751 Pocahontas Road Bessemer 3045 Independence Dr. Homewood birminghamparent.com | 9

short stuff

The Sheriff 's Corner

Covenant Classical Opens Homewood Location

By JEFFCO Sheriff Mike Hale

The question that parents ask me the most is, “How do I teach my child about danger from strangers?”

Th is is one of the scariest topics for a parent. Here are some tips for child safety:

Covenant Classical Schools & Daycare has completed construction of the Homewood campus, and the grand opening is Saturday, February 21, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the campus located at 151 Covenant Way, which is near Old Columbiana Road and Carr Avenue.

The 15,000 square-foot building includes 12 classrooms for children ranging from infants through kindergarten.

Dustin Jowers will serve as director of the Homewood campus and says he is looking forward to officially beginning his role there.

“Working with the city of Homewood has been an absolute pleasure,” says CCS CEO John LaBreche. “We are very excited to have a presence in the Homewood community.”

Covenant Classical Schools & Daycare (CCS) is headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama with six schools located in Birmingham and Huntsville. For more information about Covenant Classical Schools & Daycare, please visit www.ccslion.com.

✱ Teach your child to listen to their instincts no matter how nice, well-dressed, or harmless a stranger may appear. ✱ Instruct your child to use a “buddy system.”

There really is safety in numbers. ✱ Boost your child’s confidence by teaching him or her to be aware of their surroundings. ✱ Make sure they know their telephone number and address. ✱ Emphasize to your children that they should not open the door when at home alone. ✱ When answering the telephone, never say that a parent is not home.

As a parent, you can work with your child’s innate ability to sense danger. You will be surprised how your child responds to your teachings.

The Sheriff ’s Corner is designed to keep citizens informed of the latest criminal trends, scams, alerts and educate citizens on how to protect themselves.

Learn about the weather with Charles Ghigna’s new board books!

COVER KIDS SEARCH FINALISTS ARE ONLINE NOW

Go to www.birmingham-

978-1-4795-6041-7

978-1-4795-6042-4

978-1-4795-6043-1

978-1-4795-6044-8

www.capstoneyoungreaders.com

SCHOOL

NEWS 10 | birminghamparent | february 2015

parent.com to see the COVER KIDS SEARCH FINALISTS finalists and vote for your ARE ONLINE NOW favorites.

Go to www.birminghamparent.com to see the finalists and vote for your favorites.

SEND US YOUR SCHOOL NEWS editor@birminghamparent.com We welcome photos, too, but be sure you have the rights to the photo before sending and include any caption or photo credit we should include. There is no guarantee about what news items we will use – we are limited by our space restrictions, but will try to include all we can! Deadline each month is the 10th prior to the month of the magazine.

school news

Kohl’s Now Accepting Nominations for Volunteerism Award

due in

2015

Nominations for kids ages six to 18 will be accepted January 30 – March 13 at kohlskids.com, and nominators must be 21 years or older. Th rough the program, Kohl’s will award more than 2,500 young volunteers nearly $400,000 in scholarships and prizes to reward kids who have made a positive impact on their communities. ✱ Ten national winners will each be awarded a $10,000 scholarship for higher education, and Kohl’s will donate $1,000 to a nonprofit organization on each national winner’s behalf ✱ Nearly 200 students will win regional scholarships worth $1,000 toward higher education

®

✱ More than 2,000 local students will receive a $50 Kohl’s gift card Kohl’s Cares® Scholarship Program is part of Kohl’s Cares®, Kohl’s philanthropic program focused on improving the lives of children. Since the program began in 2001, Kohl’s has recognized more than 22,000 kids with more than $4.2 million in scholarships and prizes. To learn more about last year’s winners, visit kohlskids.com.

Celebrate With Us On February 21, 2015 You’re invited to the CCS Homewood Grand Opening Celebration! We’ve planned a day that’s fun and family oriented where you can tour our new facility and meet members of our staff. Join us on Saturday, February 21st from 10am to 2pm. We can’t wait to see you there!

151 Covenant Way • Homewood, AL 35209

SVHS Students Earn Best in State Honors in Verizon Challenge

A group of students from Shades Valley High School (SVHS), a Jefferson County International Baccalaureate School, recently earned Best in State honors and one of 24 Best in Region awards in the third national Verizon Innovative App Challenge.

The student team from SVHS came up with a concept for an app called Vocal that will allow users to organize and manage their volunteer events. The three-calendar system will consist of volunteer events by area, organizations that users like and events that friends are attending. Th is will allow users to manage their time by tracking hours and displaying how they are helping out in the community.

All Best in Region teams will receive $5,000 to advance (or start up) their Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) programs and will advance to the fi nal round of the competition Feb. 3, when eight Best in Nation winners – four middle school and four high school teams – are chosen. Best in Nation teams will earn their schools an additional $15,000 cash grant from the Verizon Foundation to further develop or support a STEM-related program.

To see the full list of the Best in Region winners, visit http://verizon.com/appchallenge.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT

WWW.CCSLION.COM/HOMEWOOD

Extraordinary young people deserve extraordinary summers.

Summer @ Springs • IndianSprings.org/Summer

Indian Springs School • WEEKLONG DAY CAMPS FOR STUDENTS IN GRADES 4-12 birminghamparent.com | 11

camp considerations:

10 TIPS

BEFORE DAY CAMP STARTS

By Denise Yearian

Camp season will be here before you know it. Before sending your child to day camp, here are some suggestions to make things go a little more smoothly.

1. FILL ‘ER UP. Bring one bottle of water that has been cooled in the refrigerator and a second one that has been in the freezer. As the day wears on, the frozen water will melt and provide cool refreshment for your child. Spray bottles are a great idea too. They keep the face and body cool in the hot sun.

2. IT’S A SCORCHER! Apply sunscreen to your child’s skin before he leaves home and send the tube along for later reapplication. Avoid sending tanning lotion with little or no SPF, or sunscreen that contains glitter as it can reflect light and cause sunburn. Consider sending along a hat for extra protection.

3. BUG OFF! If your child is going to be out in a natural environ-

ment, he should wear insect repellent. Look for a lotion form that is safe for children; avoid sprays. When camp is over, follow up with a tick check.

4. ALL DECKED OUT. One thing camp directors always see are

children coming with the wrong clothing for what they will be doing at camp. Some kids want to pick out their own clothes, but if they have chosen black jeans and a dark t-shirt, it may not be the best option. Dress your child for comfort, safety and appropriate temperatures. Proper shoes are important too, particularly if he is playing outside. Avoid strappy sandals and flip flops; opt for tennis shoes.

5. NAME IT AND CLAIM IT. Any item brought to camp should

have your child’s name, address and phone number on it in case it gets left behind. It also avoids confusion if identical items are brought by two children.

12 | birminghamparent | february 2015

6. TIME OUT FROM TECH TOYS. Do

not bring valuable items such as handheld games or cell phones. Day camp programs are designed to provide an enriching experience, and your child should be engaging in these activities rather than playing with electronics.

If these items are brought, they may be confiscated and returned at the end of the day in hopes your child gets the message.

7. PILLS, PAINS AND OTHER PROBLEMS. All camps have forms for parents

to list medications their child is on.

But if you take your child off a medication for the summer, the camp needs to know that too, because it could cause an extreme change in behavior.

Allergies are another issue to make counselors aware of, be it insect or food related. Equally important is to share other concerns with camp staff, such as if your family is going through a divorce or has experienced a recent death, as this might affect how your child interacts throughout the day. Camps look out

for the physical and emotional needs of a child, so the more information you provide, the better equipped they will be.

8. HELP IS ON THE WAY! Having an emergency contact person is vital. Even more important is that the designated person knows you have written her name down. Every year camps have situations where they call the emergency contact person and she was not informed she was designated as such.

Before listing a person’s name on the form, let her know first.

9. BEEF YER’ BRAIN. Read the materials the camp gives you – policies, procedures and planned activities. If you know what to expect and what is expected of you, things will run much smoother. Most camps have a weekly schedule so parents know what the upcoming activities are. Talk with your child about the activities planned. If she cannot participate because of health reasons, make sure you (not your child!) inform the camp.

10. GETTING TO KNOW YOU. Find out if there is an open house where you can meet the staff and see the facility prior to camp. If not, make other arrangements to introduce yourself to those who will be caring for your child. It is important for the camp directors and counselors to know you so they can keep you informed on how things are going for your child at camp.

Finally, encourage your child to enjoy the experience. Mark the first day of camp on the family calendar and do a countdown. Help your child develop a checklist of items needed. And don’t forget to share your own camp stories.

Remind your child to do his best, obey the rules, be respectful of others and have a great time!

Denise Yearian is the former editor of two parenting magazines and the mother of three children.

Our 10-week Summer Camp program serves children ages 4—7.

Mention this ad & get

$25 OFF registration fee!

birminghamparent.com | 13

Day Camps ADVENT EPISCOPAL SCHOOL 2019 6th Ave. N. Birmingham, AL 35203-2701 205-252-2535 Info@AdventEpiscopalSchool.org www.AdventEpiscopalSchool.org Offering summer camps June 8- July 31 for students entering Kindergarten to 3rd grade. For students entering 4th grade to 8th grade, Advent will offer five weeks of camp over the summer.

ADVENTURES IN SUMMER LEARNING 2015 ALABAMA SCHOOL OF FINE ARTS 1800 Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd.

Birmingham, AL 35203 205.252.9241 www.asfa.k12.al.us June 1-5 -Theater Arts Summer Camp (entering grades 4-6) June 15-19 -Theater Auditioning Tips & Techniques (entering grades 6-8) Camps available in writing, dance, music, math, chemistry, computer programming, robotics, engineering, theatre arts and visual arts. See our web site for specific descriptions, fees, dates and registration forms. Camps are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

ALDRIDGE GARDENS SUMMER CAMPS 3530 Lorna Road Hoover, AL 35216 205-682-8019 aawilson@aldridgegardens.com aldridgegardens.com American Girls, Chemistry & Construction Kids, Nature Artists, Treasure Seekers and more!

Morning day camps, weekly June 1-26. Campers entering K-4th grade. All teachers have Alabama Certification in Education.

ALYS STEPHENS CENTER'S ARTPLAY 1006 19th St. S. Birmingham, AL 35205 www.artplayasc.org kkirklin@uab.edu 205-975-4769 ArtPlay is the education and outreach department of UAB’s Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center. Offering Musical, Visual Arts, and Theatre summer camps for children age 6 to 18.

BIRMINGHAM DANCE THEATRE 100 Olde Towne Rd. Suite 100 Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 ​205-​822-3012 ​BDTdance5678@gmail.com www.BDTdance.com Dates: June & July Ages: 2-18 Offering beginner-advanced dance classes in hip-hop, jazz, ballet, cheer/dance team prep, tumbling, plus special Princess Camps and preschool ballet & tap classes.

BIRMINGHAM GIRLS’ CHOIR 2050 Longmeadow Lane Hoover, AL 35216 205-365-5123 Birminghamgirlschoir.walston@ gmail.com www.birminghamgirlschoir.org BGC is open to girls in grades 1-12 for audition. For more info on summer camps, see our website, www.birminghamgirlschoir.org BIRMINGHAM MUSEUM OF ART 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd.

Birmingham, AL 35203 205.254.2565 www.artsbma.org Summer Art Camp is the only summer experience that gives your camper immediate access to our collection of original artworks from around the world!

Give your child a summer of endless inspiration!

BIRMINGHAM SOUTHERN COLLEGE 900 Arkadelphia Rd. Birmingham, AL 35254 800-523-5793 www.bsc.edu Whether to experience college life or summer activities for grade schoolers, BSC offers options for everyone! Explore life on our beautiful campus, work with BSC coaches or music faculty, and make friends from around the country.

BIRMINGHAM SOUTHERN BASKETBALL CAMP Box 549035 Birmingham, AL 35254 205-226-4898 www.bschoops.com Dates: July 6-9 , July 13-16, & Aug 3-6 Ages: Boys & Girls 7 - 17 Fee: $200 per camper Players coached on the proper fundamentals by BSC coaching staff & players and will play a

14 | birminghamparent | february 2015

variety of games! Mon- Thursday, 9AM-5PM. Campers receive lunch, a basketball & t-shirt BIRMINGHAM ZOO 2630 Cahaba Road Birmingham, AL 35223 205.397.3877 www.birminghamzoo.com/ education camps@birminghamzoo.com Ages: Entering 4K -8 grade Experience up-close animal encounters, zipline adventures, train & carousel rides, fun in the splash fountains and guided zoo tours. The best place for summer fun is a Birmingham Zoo Camp!

CAMP FLETCHER 5150 Fletcher Road Bessemer, AL 35022 205-428-1059 campfletcher@campfire-al.org www.campfire-al.org Dates: June 1-July 31 Ages: 1-12 grade Resident, day & leadership camps; quality programs with activities for all ages, genders & interests. High staff ratios, affordable sessions, ACA accredited. Located in McCalla, AL. CAMP FLIPTASTIC AT HEAD OVER HEELS GYMNASTICS 500 Caldwell Mill Trace Birmingham, AL 35242 205-981-2720 office@headoverheelsgyms.com www.headoverheelsgyms.com Dates: June 15-19 and July 13-17, School Ages; June 9-11 and July 7-9, 201​5 Fee: $99/Preschool; $225 School Age Daily themes, fantastic staff, creative crafts and plenty of gymnastics make our summer camp all day fun!!

CAMP INDIAN SPRINGS 190 Woodward Drive Indian Springs Village, AL 35124 205-260-8548 campindiansprings119@gmail.com campindiansprings119.com Dates: June 1-July 31 Ages: 5-13 Campers are active and engaged in outdoor and indoor play as well as off-campus activities designed to entertain, develop and promote growth in each camper.

CHILDREN’S DANCE FOUNDATION 1715 27th Ct. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-870-0073 www.childresndancefoundation.org shellie@childrensdancefounation.org Camps for kindergarten through 9th grades. Weekly classes, too!

ELIZABETH PERRY RUSHTON CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER 2118 Fourth Ave. N. Birmingham, AL 35203 admin@eprcdc.com www.eprcdc.com 205-322-8310 The Elizabeth Perry Rushton Child Development Center, established in 1995, serves children ages 6 weeks through 4 years, and is accredited by NAEYC. THE FAMILY CARE CENTER AT THE GUIDING LIGHT CHURCH 1800 John Rogers Drive Birmingham, AL 35210 205-380-4818 amanda.brown@guidinglight.org www.TheFamilyCareCenter.com Dates: June 1 –Aug.7 Ages: 1-8 grade Day programs are available M-F, 7am-6pm for boys & girls.

Services include breakfast, lunch, snack, trips & more. Child care services also available for ages 6 weeks & up.

GIRLS INC. OF CENTRAL ALABAMA P.O. Box 130729 Birmingham, AL 35213 Telephone: 205-599-5548 Fax: 205-599-5550 qfrye@girlsinccentral-al.org www.girlsinccentral-al.org Dates: July 6- July 31 at UAB Business & Engineering Complex Ages: Rising 8th grade girls (completing 7th grade in May & entering 8th grade in August) Eureka! Teen Achievement Program Summer Camp engages girls in hands-on projects in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Fun with field trips and adventure sports!

HIGHLANDS SCHOOL 4901 Old Leeds Road Birmingham, AL 35213 205-956-9731 www.highlandsschool.org gmmcool@highlandsschool.org Dates: June 1-July 31 Ages: K-8th Arts, sports, science and more for elementary-8th grade.

Campers continue to learn while having a great time! Traditional day camps. Morning and afternoon extended care.

INDIAN SPRINGS SCHOOL SUMMER@SPRINGS 190 Woodward Drive Indian Springs, AL 35124 205.532.1806 dray@indiansprings.org www.IndianSprings.org/Summer Dates: June & July select weeks Ages: Rising 4th-12th graders Summer@Springs offers fun, adventurous, and enriching weeklong day camps designed to help students make the most of their summer breaks.

JOSEPH BRUNO MONTESSORI ACADEMY SUMMER CAMP 5509 Timber Hill Road Birmingham, AL 35242 Rebecca@jbma.org www.jbma.org Dates: June 1- July 24 Ages: Preschool and elementary students Offers interactive and creative summer camps designed to engage children in meaningful and fun summer activities. Relax and EXPERIENCE summer on our peaceful wooded campus.

LAPETITE ACADEMY 2825 Highway 31 S. Pelham, AL 35124 205-663-4011 ysanderfer@lapetite.com Provides educational childcare for children 6 weeks - age 12. Passionate about providing children with the tools they need to be successful in all aspects of their lives.

MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER 200 19th St. N. Birmingham, AL 35203 205-714-8414 info@mcwane.org www.mcwane.org Fun and learning never end at Mc-

Wane Science Center, a nonprofit, hands-on museum with aquarium and IMAX® Dome Theater. Four floors of interactive exhibits celebrate science and wonder.

PURIFOY GROUP HOME 171 Carlson Road Wilsonville, AL 35186 205-563-0988 rnettles_purifoyadhc@ymail.com Dates: June 1-July 31 Ages: 16 and up Overnight and day camps available this summer that helps teens & adults with daily living skills. Recreation, field trips, arts & crafts and much more!

NORTH SHELBY SCHOOL OF PERFORMING ARTS 4100 Belcher Drive Birmingham, AL 35242 205-365-7476 Susane Parsons, Director arts@northshelbybaptist.org Music Through the Ages, July 13- 17, 9am -1pm. Early bird price until May1:$150.

After May 1: $175. “He has made everything beautiful in its time.”

Ecclesiastes 3:11

RED MOUNTAIN THEATRE COMPANY’S BROADWAY BOOTCAMP 3028 7th Ave. S. Birmingham, Alabama 35233 (205) 324-2424 www.redmountaintheatre.org/ broadwaybootcamp workshops@redmountaintheatre.org ​ Dates: June 1-19 Fee: $180-$1200 RMTC’s Broadway Bootcamp offers a variety of acting, singing, and dancing instruction for ages 5-18 taught by Birmingham’s best to Broadway professionals.

ODYSSEY EARLY SCH​OOLS • Inverness Campus 104 Heatherbrooke Park Dr. Birmingham, AL 35242 205-991-0039 • Trace Crossings Campus 401 Emery Dr. Hoover, AL 35244 205-988-8829 www.odysseyearlyschool.com Created by educators featuring ​ state-of-the-art facilities​, nurturing teachers ​with Education degrees, and comprehensive curriculum ​that provides your child with age appropriate exploration into the world of learning.

THE ACADEMY OF THE ARTS AT SAMFORD UNIVERSITY South Lakeshore Drive Birmingham, AL 35229 205-726-4049 205-726-2739 chmacon@samford.edu www.samford.edu/academy-ofthe-arts Dates: Art-June 8-12 Preschool Music-July 13-17 Piano-June 15-19 Piano/Voice-July 6-10 Summer Music and Arts camps at Samford University in Homewood. Taught by experienced faculty and staff.

PELHAM SKATE SCHOOL’S BASIC SKILLS SUMMER CAMPS Pelham Civic Complex and Ice Arena 500 Amphitheatre Road Pelham, AL 35124 205-620-6448 www.pelhamciviccomplex.com Dates: March 30-April 3 Summer TBD Ages: 5-11 Fee: $250/wk We have the coolest camp in town! Join us at the Pelham Civic Complex and Ice Arena for our “Learn to Skate” camps this spring and summer.

June Camp June 15-19 July Camp July 13-17

SAMFORD UNIVERSITY 800 Lakeshore Drive Birmingham, AL 35229 www.samford.edu/community/ summer-programs/ Offering numerous academic

Early drop-off and late pick-up are available for an additional fee. Early drop off begins at 7:30am; late pick up until 5:30pm. Friday afternoon at 3:00pm is our “show-off” camp finale performance for family and friends.

• Piano and Chamber Music Institute Grades 7–12 June 7–13 • IMAGINE! Grades K-12 June 8–12 & June 15–19 • Adventures in Music Camp Grades 1–12 June 15–19 (piano); July 6–10 (piano or voice) • Bulldog Pharmacy Camp (rising high school juniors, seniors & college freshmen) June 21–26 (Overnight) • Summer Debate Institute Grades 9–12, June 21–July 4 • Academy Art Summer Camp Ages 7–11, June 22–26 • J.D. Calling Grades 11–12 - June 24–27 • M.D. Calling Grades 11–12, June 24–27 • Minority Youth Science Academy Grades 9–12, June 28–July 1 • Animate Grades 8-12, June 29–July 3 • Great Ideas Summer Institute Grades 9–12, July 5–10 or July 12–17 • Quantitative Finance Summer Institute Grades 9–12, July 5–10 or July 12–17 • All Aboard for Music Camp Ages 3–6, July 13–17 • Athletic Training Summer Workshop Information coming soon!

Daily themes, fantastic staff, creative crafts and plenty of gymnastics make our summer camp all-day fun!

Our goal is to be your child’s favorite camp!

NEW

MITY-MITES PRESCHOOL

Camp Fliptastic ages 3-6

MONDAY-FRIDAY FROM 9-4 - Ages 5-12

summer programs in literature, pharmacy, law, medicine, debate, art, theatre, music, quantitative finance and science. For more information, go to samford.edu/community/ summer-programs/.

June 9-11 July 7-9 Tuesday-Thursday 9-12 Campers must be 3 years old and potty trained. Please no Pull-ups.

ENROLLING NOW!

Sign up early, camp enrollments are limited.

981-2720 . 500 Caldwell Trace Park (Caldwell Mill/Valleydale Road) www. headoverheelsgyms.com birminghamparent.com | 15

SOUTHERN MUSEUM OF FLIGHT 4343 73rd St. N Birmingham, AL 35206 205-833-8226 elizabeth.grady@birminghamal.gov www.southernmuseumofflight.org Dates & Ages: June 15-19, Ages 6-10 July 13-17, Ages 10 & up The Southern Museum of Flight is Birmingham’s premier flight museum dedicated to preserving the rich stories and historic artifacts of Southern Aviation.

SUMMER ADVENTURE CLUB PRIMROSE SCHOOL AT LIBERTY PARK 1800 Urban Center Pkwy.

Vestavia Hills, AL 35242 205-964-8202 or 205-964-8203 # of sessions: 11 weeks Dates: starting June 1 Ages: 5-10 years old mobryant@primroselibertypark.com primroselibertypark.com At Primrose, we know what it takes to fuel your child’s natural curiosity. We provide a fun, hands-on experience, outdoor exploration, creative play and weekly themes.

SYLVAN LEARNING *Hoover Location 3657 Lorna Road, Ste. 137 Hoover, AL 35244 (205) 987-9802 *Trussville Location 1110 N. Chalkeville Rd., Ste. 132 Trussville, AL 35173 205-508-5172 camps@sylvanalabama.com www.sylvanalabama.com Grades: 2-8 We have camps focusing on STEM areas including robotics, coding/game design, math and more! Two Birmingham locations.

Call or go online for more info!

Overnight Camps CAMP FLETCHER 5150 Fletcher Road Bessemer, AL 35022 205-428-1059 campfletcher@campfire-al.org www.campfire-al.org Dates: June 1-July 31 Ages: 1-12 grade Resident, day & leadership camps; quality programs with activities for all ages, genders & interests. High staff ratios, affordable sessions, ACA accredited. Located in McCalla, AL. CAMP JULIETTE LOW 321 Camp Juliette Low Road Cloudland, GA 30731 770-428-1062 info@cjl.org www.cjl.org Dates: June 7- Aug. 1 Ages: 7-17 On Lookout Mountain! A traditional girl’s camp where self-reliance, confidence and teamwork are nurtured through fun, instructional programs.

Smiles and friendship abound in beautiful surroundings.

CAMP SUMATANGA 3616 Sumatanga Road Gallant, AL 35972 256-538-9860 reservations@sumatanga.org www.sumatanga.org Camp Sumatanga, 50 miles north of Birmingham, offers Sports camps, Grandparent/ child camps, Horse camps, Mom and Me and many more. Serving over 60 years. ACA accredited.

CAMP WHEEZEAWAY YMCA/Camp Chandler 7548 Forest Edge Lane Montgomery, AL 36117 334-799-3449

www.campchandler.org (click on WheezeAway) brendabasnight@yahoo.com Dates: June 28-July 3 Ages 8-12 Fee: FREE A free camp for children ages 8-12 with moderate to severe asthma. Must be on daily medication for their asthma.

CAMP WOODMONT 381 Moonlight Dr. Cloudland, GA 30731 423-472-6070 alyson@campwoodmont.com www.campwoodmont.com Overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-14, just 2 hours north of Birmingham, features horseback, high ropes, climbing, zip-line, crafts, archery, canoeing & more!

CUB CREEK SCIENCE CAMP 573-458-2125 www.myanimalcamp.com Dates: June – Aug. 1-6 week sessions Ages: Boys & girls, 7-17 Care for over 100 different animals at our zoo! 100+ science activities including courses in veterinary medicine, animal care, crime science, survival skills, archery, riflery, & crafts.

A/C cabins, 1:4 staff/camper ratio, ACA accredited.

DEER RUN CAMPS & RETREATS 3845 Perkins Road Thompson’s Station, TN 37179 888-794-2918 www.camps.deerrunretreat.org contact@deerrunretreat.org # of sessions: 6 Dates: June 7- July 25 Ages: Completed grades 3-12 Fees: $729/1 wk, $1569/2 wks Deeper Faith. Greater Adven-

tures. Exceptional staff. Builds character, confidence, relationships. Horseback riding, lake activities, climbing, paintball, ropes courses, cardboard boat regatta, archery, nightly speaker, worship.

MCCALLIE SPORTS CAMP 500 Dodds Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37404 423-453-5633 sportscamp@mccallie.org www.mccalliesportscamp.com For over 35 years, McCallie Sports Camp has been the South’s premiere sports camp for boys. We emphasize sportsmanship, participation and fun for all ability levels.

PONDEROSA BIBLE CAMP 1018 Co. Rd. 734 Mentone, AL 35984 256-996-5141 256-634-3087 (fax) jeff@pbcpsm.com www.ponderosabiblecamp.com Offering one week, overnight sessions. Bible-based lessons, pool, gym, zip-line, sky-swing, horses, canoeing, archery, riflery, field games, great food and leadership training.

RIVERVIEW CAMP FOR GIRLS P.O. Box 299 Mentone, AL 35984 256-634-4043 info@riverviewcamp.com www.riverviewcamp.com Dates: May 31- July 31 Riverview is a private camp for girls ages 6-16 on top of Lookout Mountain in Mentone. Over 16 activities to choose from for a summer full of fun. continued on following page>>

Fun and educational summer camps at Aldridge Gardens. For elementary ages.

For all interests. Forever changed.

16 | birminghamparent | february 2015

OUNT

CAMPS FAMaIgLeYs 5 & up

Williamson

• Ann ua ent ar

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P M CEXAPERIENCES

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Y L I M A F & T H G I N OVER C ION DIS ISTRATTH! G E R Y EARL UGH FEB 28 THRO

AMPS IGHTs C N R E – 3 V O teen grade 5 es 6–8 (1 or 2 weeks) Pre grad School Middle ool grades 9–12 h High Sc

BUILD > CHARACTER, CONFIDENCE, RELATIONSHIPS RETREATS CAMPSAL&M 42:1 PS

Camps.DeerRunRetreat.org • 888.794.2918 2.5 HOURS NORTH OF BIRMINGHAM • NEAR HISTORIC FRANKLIN, TN

DEEPER FAITH. GREATER ADVENTURES. ACADEMY OF THE ARTS AT SAMFORD UNIVERSITY presents

SUMMER MUS C AND ART CAMPS taught by experienced faculty and staff

ART

June 8–12

Adventures in Music

June 15–19 (piano only) July 6–10 (piano and voice)

All Aboard for Music July 13–17

726-4049 or 726-2739 www.samford.edu/academy-of-the-arts

birminghamparent.com | 17

VALLEY VIEW RANCH EQUESTRIAN CAMP 606 Valley View Ranch Road Cloudland, GA 30731 706-862-2231 info@valleyviewranch.com www.valleyviewranch.com Dates: June 1-August 1 Ages: Girls 8-17 Fee: $1500-$2950 Horse lovers’ paradise since 1954! Atop Lookout Mountain, for 50 girls; English, Western, Barrels, Vaulting, and Trails.

Spend 4-6 hours daily with your OWN camp horse.

YMCA CAMP COSBY 2290 Paul Bear Bryant Road Alpine, AL 35014 252-268-2007 info@campcosby.org www.campcosby.org Ages: 6-15 Camp Cosby offers a traditional overnight summer camp. Campers stay in air-conditioned cabins with highly-trained camp counselors. Activities include archery, canoeing, horseback riding, water-skiing, arts and crafts.

Things for Camp APPLAUSE DANCEWEAR 1629 Oxmoor Rd. Birmingham, AL 35209 205-871-STEP www.appausedancewear.net Largest selection of dancewear in the Southeast. Clothing, shoes and accessories for all types of dance to fit toddler to plus size, teams and individuals.

AMERICA’S FIRST FEDERAL CREDIT UNION 1200 4th Ave. N. Birmingham, AL 35203 205-320-4150 www.amfirst.org America’s First is a full-service financial institution with more than $1 billion in assets and 18 branch locations. AF is committed to supporting the community.

RIVERCHASE UNITED METHODIST DAY SCHOOL T-N-T Kid’s Consignment Sale 1953 Old Highway 31 S.

ALABAMA’S COLLEGECOUNTS 529 6811 South 27th St. Lincoln, NE 68512

cheerleading • ropes course • ARTS & CRAFTS • soccer • sports • nature • drama

Welcome to an award winning camp experience…

RIVERVIEW CAMP FOR GIRLS.

Just off DeSoto Parkway on top of Lookout Mountain in Mentone, Alabama…nestled in a bend of Little River.

Adventure, inspiration, character & confidence-building are just a few of the benefits that go hand-in-hand with the activity choices. Riverview’s Christian emphasis & exciting programs are appreciated by both parents & campers!

Call 800-882-0722 or visit www.riverviewcamp.com for a FREE DVD & Information packet

Mother-Daughter Weekends also Available

Dr. Larry and Susan Hooks, Owners/Directors Donna Bares, Assistant Director Accredited by American Camping Association Members of Christian Camping Conference Asso.

Check us out online at www.riverviewcamp.com 18 | birminghamparent | february 2015

swimming • beach volleyball • archery • riding • basketball • golf • much more!

Recognized as one of the South’s favorite Christian summer camps for girls!

Exciting Traditional Camp for girls ages 6 to 16!

866-529-2228 info@collegecounts529.com www.collegecounts529.com Alabama’s attractive and beneficial 529 college savings program. Save any amount that fits your budget. Contributions are Alabama state income tax deductible up to $5,000 (single) and $10,000 (married filing jointly).

Financial Services

JUICE PLUS 205-332-5255 http://vickieverett.juiceplus.com vickihejp@bellsouth.net Farm fresh produce to capsule… whole food nutrition….supported by published clinical research….recommended by leading health professionals… confirmed by 200,000 families in children’s health study.

chorus • gymnastics • Dance • canoeing • tennis • GOLF

Only 2 short hours from Birmingham 1 & 2 week sessions!

Hoover, AL 35244 205-989-8070 rdstnt@riverchaseumc.org www.riverchase-tnt.com TNT is a fundraising event sponsored by Riverchase Day School. Children’s consignment sale held Friday, March 6 - 9am to 6pm and Saturday, March 7 8am to 1pm.

Camp Sumatanga Camps for all ages including grandparents & children!

Only 50 miles north of Birmingham

Adventure activities

www.sumatanga.org Serving families for over 60 years

Horse camps

3616 Sumatanga Rd. Gallant, AL 35972 (256) 538-9860 info@sumatanga.org

Birmingham’s #1 overnight camp, YMCA Camp Cosby offers a fun and safe, one-week, co-ed experience for kids ages 6-15 on the shores of Logan Martin Lake.

Summer spaces filling up fast!

Register online at campcosby.org. #campcosby

Summer Camp

ADVENTure!

June 8th - July 31st • Kindergarten -3rd grade • 4th Grade -8th grade

Want your children to have some fun this summer while learning something new and exciting at the same time?

Whether they choose our hands-on, mind-challenging, and body-stretching SummerSoltice classes or our traditional full-day Panther Camp, each week will be a new ADVENTure!

For more information, call (205) 252-2535 or visit our website www.AdventEpiscopalSchool.org

Advent Episcopal School 2019 6th Avenue North, Birmingham, AL 35203

birminghamparent.com | 19

Summer camp offers all kinds of fun and character-building experiences for kids of any age. Whether you're looking for a few hours of entertainment or weeks of intentional skill-building for your child, you can find it at camp. When kids attend camp, they develop resilience and flexibility that benefits them later in life.

Day camps offer the perfect opportunity for young kids to experience time away from Mom and explore new activities. Camp for preschool children focuses on free play, sharing with others, group games, (inside and outside) and simple arts and crafts.

If you're sending your child to camp for the first time, make sure the schedule matches her personality and routine to prevent a stressful experience. Does there need to be naptime? Should your child be potty trained to attend? Would your child adjust more easily by starting with a half day camp instead of full day?

Are there appropriate breaks for snacks and changes in activity?

It's important to find out what the counselor-to-camper ratio is for children this age. You want to ensure your child will be adequately cared for with a friendly, well-staffed team. You also want to determine if the counselors are trained to help with issues common to preschoolers including separation anxiety, potty training, and temper tantrums.

age 0-5

Summer Camp MAKING THE MOST OF SUMMER

101

By Gayla Grace

20 | birminghamparent | february 2015

The best place to find camps for young children is through day cares, churches, nursery schools, and local elementary schools.

The best place to find camps for young children is through day cares, churches, nursery schools, and local elementary schools. Specialty camps also abound through gymnastic centers, music schools, and sporting centers.

Consider your child's interests and find a camp that fits to give your preschool child a chance to make new friends and explore new experiences.

Elementary-age children thrive at camp, whether it's day camp or stay-away camp. It's the perfect solution to sibling squabbles and long summer days. But it pays to do your research and find the right fit for your child.

Camps for this age range from sports camps to music camps to academic camps to church camps. Don't let the variety intimidate you as you research; start with the interests of your child and ask friends and neighbors to give opinions on camps their kids have attended.

At this age, our kids have had the most fun at away camps that gave them the opportunity to try activities not available at home such as zip lining, archery, rock wall climbing, in addition to swimming, arts and crafts, and campfire sing-alongs with friends. Kids gain independence as they make decisions and meet new friends outside of the comforts of home. They gain self-confidence in trying new activities. And they learn to appreciate the beauty of nature as they unplug from technology. Although they may experience periods of homesickness,

age 6-11

in subjects they might want to explore for long-term focus. And church camps offer character-building and self-awareness experiences not learned in school.

Camps provide a safe place for teens and tweens to hang out while parents work during summer break. Not yet able to drive or find a summer job, kids this age too often allow technology to rule or walk into unsupervised trouble unless parents intentionally seek out creative options.

Junior high and high schools provide information for local camps worth investigating as the school year draws to a close. It's also easy to scour the internet for camps that match your child's interests. Some camps provide certification such as lifeguard training or first aid certification that can enable your youth to successfully find a job upon completion.

Encourage your youth to research camps with you to find one that fits.

they learn to forge through their feelings with caring camp counselors and new friends.

Specialty camps close to home also help kids explore new hobbies or create opportunities for parents and kids to enjoy camp together. A mother-daughter sewing camp or father-son golfing camp allows great bonding time while developing a skill enjoyed by both.

If your child has never experienced camp, start with a day camp or send a friend along for an away camp. It's important that their first camp experience be a good one. If you find it wasn't a perfect fit, try a different one next year. But don't give up on the beauty and benefits of camp for elementary-age children.

Tweens and teens have better foage cus than younger children and 12-15 benefit from camps that more closely match their interests and personalities. Sports and music camps are great for this age and help kids advance athletic skills and enhance musical talent. Academic camps offer youth advanced-learning opportunities

Gayla Grace, freelance writer and mom to five, has sent her kids to camp every summer and continues to find new camps for her one child still at home to enjoy.

Camp Juliette Low On Lookout Mountain in Cloudland, GA Located in northwest Georgia, CJL is an independent, non-profit summer camp for girls ages 7-17. 1 & 2 week sessions available.

June 7—August 1, 2015

     

Backpacking Ropes course Climbing wall Crafts/pottery Drama Pool

     

Horseback Canoeing Sailing Archery Fire-building Camp crafts

For more information or to register online:

770-428-1062 info@CJL.org

www.CJL.org …preparing girls for confident living and leadership since 1922 birminghamparent.com | 21

Finding the Right

“AWAY CAMP” FOR YOUR CHILD

By Denise Yearian

Last summer my kids did something they had never done before. They went to camp – sleep-away camp.

You know, the kind with cabins, canteens, and lots of bugs and dirt.

I must admit, I was a bit apprehensive about shipping all three of them off at once. I mean, what if they got homesick? What if I got “kid sick?”

Nonetheless, they were begging to go, so we packed their bags and off they went for seven whole days. Did they get homesick? No! In fact, they were

having so much fun they didn’t want to come home!

“Summer camp, especially sleep-away camp, is often a wonderful, growth-filled, learning experience,” said Doron Krakow, national director of Young Judaea Camp. Parents, however, often underestimate the benefits of camp and of what it will do for their child. “Some parents may think their money is better spent elsewhere than on camp fees, particularly if they themselves were not at camp as a youngster,” says Krakow. But a camp experience will provide your child with invaluable life lessons, such as how to be responsible, solve problems,

PHOTO BY KIM BRANTLEY 22 | birminghamparent | february 2015 PHOTOGRAPHY

and get along with others.

So how do you go about finding the right camp? First, talk it over with your child.

What are his interests? Does he like baseball? Soccer? Music?

The performing arts? Finding a camp with activities your child will enjoy is important. At the same time, encourage him to try new things. “Just because [your child] is a soccer junkie doesn’t mean he might not like – or be good at – arts and crafts,” says Krakow. “Camp is a great place to try something different, because everyone is having new experiences.”

Once your child has decided upon the type of camp he wants,

explore the options. Find out about the various programs each one offers and ask plenty of questions.

According to Krakow, most parents find out whether there’s quality instruction and enough time for their child to participate in the said activity, and stop there.

But, he says, parents should take a look at the big picture.

“Probe to learn about other segments of the program,” Krakow says. “What concepts or philosophy does the camp espouse? What type of child does it attract? What will my child do through the course of a typical day?” If the camp has a brochure, read it carefully. This way you can match your agenda with that of the camp and provide the experience you want for your child.

Not sure if your child is developmentally ready for camp? Have a trial run. Send him to visit a relative for the weekend. How did he do away from home? Did he sleep well? Was he able to care for himself (brush his teeth, take a bath, change his clothes)? Did he adjust to new or different foods? These and other questions will help you decide if your child is ready for camp.

Even if your child did well on a trial run, spend a

Don’t let your own apprehensions keep you from sending your child to camp. “If you keep him home because of your anxiety about separation, you’re short-changing him,” says Krakow. “If your youngster is asking to go away to camp, chances are he is ready.” few minutes talking with the camp director. Tell him about your child – how he interacts with other children, his level of participation in school, etc.

Above all, don’t let your own apprehensions keep you from sending your child to camp. “If you keep him home because of your anxiety about separation, you’re short-changing him,” says Krakow. “If your youngster is asking to go away to camp, chances are he is ready.”

On the first day of camp, help your child get settled, then leave. “Don’t stick around too long,” says Krakow. “If you drive your child to camp, he may cling to you on the way up. Remember, this is something new, and it’s natural, even for a veteran camper to be a little hesitant.” Once there, however, many kids will shift from clingy to embarrassed in front of their friends, and parents are often slow to pick up on this.

Even before you send your child to camp, mail him a letter. This way he’ll have something to open when the mail arrives on the first day. It doesn’t have to be

Your child can experience up-close animal encounters, train and carousel rides, fun in the splash fountains, zipline and guided tours of the Zoo. The best place for summer fun is at a Birmingham Zoo Camp! The Zoo has exciting full-day camps for children going into 4K through 8th grade. Register today!

BRAND NEW CAMPS! • Adventures in Art Camp • Zoo Career Camp

• Pirates of the Zooribbean Camp • Wildlife Trek Camp

For more information and to register visit www.birminghamzoo.com/education/ or call 205.879.0409. *Before Care, After Care and Lunch are available at an additional cost.

205-563-0988

rnettles_purifoyadhc@ymail.com

171 Carlson Road Wilsonville, AL 35186

Offering Day Habilitation School & Group Home Living Our Day School teaches basic living skills that helps integrate individuals into the community. Our Group Home provides 24 hr. supervision and trained staff to meet the daily needs of your family member.

LIFE SKILLS • JOB TRAINING MEDICAL SUPERVISION FIELD TRIPS • CHURCH RECREATION

OVERNIGHT & DAY SUMMER CAMPS for special needs teens & adults • June 1 - July 31

•••••

THIS SUMMER, IMAGINATIONS TAKE FLIGHT. •••••

Now Enrolling!

Fun for ages 5 – 10.

Primrose School at Liberty Park 205.969.8202 ©2015 Primrose School Franchising Company.

birminghamparent.com | 23

anything fancy – a note saying you’re thinking of him and hoping he’s having a good time will do. If you do not have time to write every day, that is okay. Just try to write as often as you can.

When my kids went to camp, I sent them notes every other day, and included jokes and riddles. And their father, who is a great cartoonist, drew pictures with captions for them, too.

Although I was faithful at letter writing, my kids weren’t. All week long I waited for something – anything – but received nothing. “If your child is a poor correspondent, don’t take it personally,” says Krakow. “Camp is a full-time job for kids. Some may be inclined to share it all with their parents, others will get so caught up in the moment that promises to write are forgotten.” A good rule of thumb is “no news is good news.” In other words, if you don’t hear from your child, it probably means he’s having a great time and enjoying his newfound freedom.

Whether your child goes to camp for one week or the whole summer, send a care package. Chances are, the other kids

summersession

2015

will get one and you don’t want your child to feel left out. The package doesn’t have to be extravagant, just something to let him know you are thinking of him. Items could include a yo-yo, his favorite magazine, a pack of gum, candy or some other goodie. Just be sure that if you’re sending food items, you know what the rules are about food in cabins. Camps often don’t allow food in the cabins because they can attract bugs, raccoons and other outdoor creatures.

When preparing to send your child to camp, avoid purchasing new clothes unless he really needs them. Chances are, they’ll get soiled, stained, or mildewed before they get home, if they even get home!

Economically speaking, you’re better off rounding up old clothes and shoes (towels and washcloths, too) and saving the new items for after camp.

Several weeks before your child attends camp, keep his schedule open and stress-free. This will allow him plenty of time to relax and prepare for the big event. If, for example, your family comes back from a vacation on Friday and you scoot your child off to camp on Sunday,

he may experience some anxiety and tension. A better idea is to plan major summer events with a break in between.

On the last day of camp, arrive on time, and come prepared with a few extra plastic bags. You may need them, especially if your child has wet clothes or muddy shoes that need to be transported.

On the ride home, listen to your child. More than likely he’ll be eager to share his experiences with you – who he met, what he did, and the funny things that happened. And if you look real close you may find he’s grown a little. Not just in height, but in depth of character.

Camp has a way of helping kids grow by boosting their self-esteem, increasing their sense of responsibility and helping them mature in their relationships with others.

Who knows? Your child may even greet you with the same words mine did: “Hey, Mom! Camp was so much fun. Can I go again next year?”

Denise Yearian is the former editor of two parenting magazines and the mother of three children.

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24 | birminghamparent | february 2015

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By Paige Townley

T

here are many “firsts” in the first two years of a child’s life: first smile, first tooth, first word and first step, just to name a few. Included on that list should be a first dental visit.

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a child should be taken to the dentist for his first checkup when his first tooth appears, or no later than his first birthday.

While many parents choose not to take children to the dentist quite that early – it’s not uncommon for a first dental visit to be made when the child is around 18 months to two years old – scheduling a dental appointment no later than a child’s second birthday is important, according to the AAPD. “This is so we can begin to advise parents on brushing techniques and dietary habits that will ensure healthy, happy teeth,” says Dr. Andrew Richardson of Cahaba Heights Pediatric Dentistry.

“The second reason is that with everything, it takes time for children to get used to new things, especially the dentist. I believe the earlier your child comes to a pediatric dentist, the quicker they will warm up and understand what we do and begin to enjoy coming to see us.”

While that time frame may seem a bit soon, starting dental visits early is the key to a lifetime of good dental health, adds Dr. Olga M. Sanchez-Hernandez of McCalla Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry. “The dental visit should be thought of as a well-baby check up with the child’s pediatrician,” she says.

And just like children should see a pediatrician, they should also be taken to a pediatric dentist instead of a family dentist, adds Dr. Michelle Bajjalieh of Alabama Pediatric Dentistry.

“Pediatric dentists have two to three years of specialized training beyond dental school,” she explains. “Plus, with pediatric dentists, the offices are ‘child-friendly.’”

26 | birminghamparent | february 2015

Photos courtesy of Dr. Lisa Miller (child is her daughter)

THE FIRST DENTAL VISIT: What You Need to Know

At the first dental visit, the appointment is just as much about educating parents about oral hygiene, diet, growth, and development as it is cleaning and examining the child’s teeth and gums. In fact, it’s not uncommon for children to be too scared and nervous to let the dentist even clean their teeth. That’s where the expertise of a pediatric dentist comes into play.

Most say they try to make the visit as fun and nonthreatening as possible. Along with the basics of teeth brushing and information for parents, many dentists and pediatric dentists have toys, books, TVs in waiting rooms and even in the examination rooms to help distract and put children at ease.

PREPARING FOR THE FIRST VISIT

“The parents know their children best, so they many times know how to properly explain things to their children,” says Dr. Lisa Miller, a local pediatric oral surgeon who sees children of all ages, including even only months old.

“I feel it is always helpful if the child knows that they are coming to

see me in the office…but it is not necessary for parents to go into great detail about the appointment,” Miller says.

If a child is too scared to sit in the chair, most pediatric dentists will let them sit in the parent’s lap during the exam. “You would be surprised how that little change from a dental chair to their mom’s lap eases the child’s fear,” Richardson adds. “Just the security of being close to their parent gives them enough confidence and strength to let me clean and examine their teeth.”

If the comfort of mom’s lap still doesn’t ease the child’s nerves, the first visit, or even the first few visits, can be more about teaching the child about the dentist visit instead. “We don’t force children to do anything during a visit if they aren’t comfortable,” says Dr. Michael S. Anglin. “If we see that there are no dental issues that need to be addressed at the time, then we just try to help them get through their fears. There’s no reason to traumatize them.”

If a child isn’t working through his or her fears of the dentist quickly, the important thing for parents to

remember, says Sanchez-Hernandez, is to continue taking them to the dentist periodically. “Don’t make the mistake of not bringing them to the dentist because they didn’t behave the way you expected them to and are waiting until they are older for them to be ‘ready,’” she says. “Even if they do not initially like it or understand why they need to come to the dentist, exposing them to the experience consistently will eventually help them overcome the fear.”

Miller says it is important for parents to be honest with their children. “It always makes my job more difficult when the patient was told they are not getting a tooth out, when in reality, that is why they are coming to see me. The child then feels like I am being untruthful and untrustworthy…if parents are not certain how to answer one of their children’s questions, they can bring it to the appointment and we will discuss it in their consultation.”

continued on page 29 >>

Brookwood Dental Arts Building ● 2045 Brookwood Medical Ctr. Dr. ● Suite #21 ● Birmingham, AL 35209 ● 205.870.0892 birminghamparent.com | 27

Thank you to all our patients who have nominated us for Kids Favorite Docs and voted us as a Multiple Winner for Family Favorite Dentist!

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PLAN AHEAD FOR DENTAL SUCCESS Going to the dentist can be a worrisome experience for anyone, especially for a child who doesn’t understand. Here are some tips to keep your child’s first dental visit all smiles. n Maintain a positive attitude. “Children feed off the fear of their parents and are more likely to enter our office with a trusting attitude and smiling face when they know that their mom and dad enjoy visiting their dentist,” says Dr. Clark Thomas of Pediatric & Adolescent Dentistry.

n Don’t talk about negative

n Schedule a meet and greet.

A child might relax easier with the new faces if she has a chance to meet the dental office staff before the actual appointment and check out the office.

n Make dental activities fun at home. “Let them hold their toothbrush and play with the floss,” says Dr. Angelica Rohner. “Try to teach them to lie back in your lap or on a chair to have their teeth brushed.

Then “count” their teeth as the dentist will when checking for cavities.”

n Schedule an appointment for a time when the child will be well rested.

dental experiences in front of the child. “Parents

should be aware that children listen to everything,” says Tabitha Gatrey of Pediatric Smiles.

“If a parent or another person had a bad experience, those conversations should not be discussed where a child could hear.” n Explain who a dentist is and

what they do before the visit. “Talk with them in a way that they understand and talk the visit up as fun and exciting,” says Dr. Andrew Richardson.

“Everyone has some fear or discomfort when they hear the words ‘dental appointment.’”

n Provide the child with resources that help explain what to expect, such as a storybook about a character going to the dentist.

Paige Townley is a freelance writer.

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Creating a Healthier Community with Healthy You

By Paige Townley

tion styles and the importance of listening.

The topics all combine to show what makes healthy relationships. “One thing we try to instill in high school students is that you have relationships your whole life; you don’t necessarily consciously think about whether they are healthy or unhealthy, but when you start recognizing what a healthy relationship looks like it gives you an opportunity to stop and think about it,” Palo says. “Everything we do is built upon a relationship with somebody, and that’s exactly what we want them to see.

Most kids really want healthy relationships.”

By improving the way kids manage relationships, the organization hopes to help them better understand marriage and family. “We hope to provide them with a different way to look at life,” Palo says. “In

E

very morning, Stella Eady rises before the sun. A cook, she begins each morning by preparing the breakfast menu for customers who will begin making their way into the deli at 6 a.m. “I love what I do,” Stella says. “I was born to cook, so I love my job. I go to bed every night thinking about what I’m going to do the next day.”

But for Stella, her professional life hasn’t always been so easy. Having previously been incarcerated, Stella once had trouble holding onto a job out of fear of being honest about her past. “The last job I had I actually lost because I wasn’t straightforward on my application,” she explains. “After about three months they found out about my background and let me go.”

Luckily for Stella, she turned to Healthy You, Inc. A nonprofit organization, Healthy You hosts relationship skills educational courses for women who have been or currently are incarcerated. The program teaches the women how to communicate, deal with anger and recognize abuse. “We talk to women a lot about their anger, where it comes from and how to deal with it,” says Mary Palo, executive director and founder of Healthy You. “We also talk a lot about what abuse is, how to identify it and how to keep from 32 | birminghamparent | february 2015

getting into abusive situations. Many of these women have been abused, so for a lot of them it’s the fi rst time they’ve ever heard that every person has value.”

Healthy You has been teaching courses at prisons around the state for the last four years after getting a phone call one day about potentially hosting a class at Mount Meigs Women’s Facility. “We didn’t start out working in the prisons, it was an opportunity that found us, but we are so grateful to get to do it,” Palo says. “It’s pretty amazing the transformation that takes place with these ladies. One thing you have to realize is that when people are in prison there is a sense of hopelessness that settles in with them. It’s the same thing day after day. We are bringing in a new message and teaching them that they can make responsible choices; they don’t have to be victims. We get a great response from most of the women we deal with. So often I hear them say that they fi nally realize they can make choices and no longer have to be victims and that they have real value. That’s huge.”

But Healthy You doesn’t just focus on incarcerated women. The organization actually began in the classroom about eight years ago. The high school program focuses on teaching students how to communicate properly, including different communica-

other words, we want children to grow up in healthy families. Healthy families make healthy communities. We hear a lot about high school dropouts and other things that are indicative of families in trouble. So our ultimate goal is to provide a safer community for children to thrive and grow. But if we want healthy communities, we must have healthy families. To have healthy families, we have to teach people what a healthy family looks like because unfortunately it’s not what our children see much of anymore.”

So far, Healthy You has reached approximately 22,000 high school students, including McKenzie Dalton, who is in her junior year of high school. “In the program I learned about how relationships are the basis of being a leader because if you don’t have good

PHOTOS COURTESY OF HEALTHY YOU INC.

Many of these women have been abused, so for a lot of them it’s the first time they’ve ever heard that every person has value.

relationships you can’t be a leader,” McKenzie says. “One thing that really stood out to me was the point the instructor made about how we need to be listeners and not just talkers. We need to focus on what other people say and have enough leadership to admit when another person is right.”

While hoping to reach as many as possible at the high school level to encourage them to lead healthy lives, the organization is also excited about its growing opportunity to help women get back on track, like Stella, who has now been at her job for over a year and is thriving. “The class really motivated me and particularly helped me see that no matter what I have to be honest and straightforward,” Stella says. “But along with that, they taught me that my past is my past. I had to learn that. I knew that before, but the class taught me to better understand who I really was.”

Paige Townley is a local freelance writer.

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birminghamparent.com | 33

family travel

Selma to Montgomery March Celebrates 50 Years

A

By Lori Chandler Pruitt

labama is the site for many of the most significant events in the Civil Rights Movement, and this year, the state will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery March that resulted in the signing of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, along with other events and attractions to mark this time in history.

Along with the recent release last month of the movie “Selma” that chronicles Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s efforts to secure voting rights, it’s a great time to visit and learn.

The Selma to Montgomery March began March 7, 1965, when about 600 civil rights marchers headed east out of Selma on U.S. Route 80. They got only as far as the Edmund Pettus Bridge six blocks away before they were attacked by state and local law enforcement, driving them back. Two days later, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. led a symbolic march to the bridge, and leaders sought court protection for a third, full-scale march that was granted by a federal judge.

On March 21, 1965, about

3,200 people set out for the 54-mile march to Montgomery, walking 12 miles a day and sleeping in fields, including the historic “Tent City” which stood at the halfway point. In Lowndes County, Viola Luizzo, a white mother of five from Detroit who traveled to Alabama to support the voting rights movement by taking marchers back and forth throughout the protest, was assassinated by Ku Klux Klan members.

Four days after the march began, marchers reached Montgomery, gathering without incident in front of the Alabama State Capitol, by that time at 25,000 marchers strong. Less than five months later, President Lyndon Johnson signed into law the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Each city on the trail contains many museums and other attractions. In Selma, the Brown Chapel AME Church, where Rev. Hosea Williams and John Lewis began that first attempt to reach Montgomery, features a bust of King and was the headquarters for the 1965 voting rights marches. The National Park Service center is at the midpoint of the 54-mile trail from Selma to Montgomery, displaying

February is

Black History Month 34 | birminghamparent | february 2015

photographs and memorabilia.

Also in Selma, the National Voting Rights Museum & Institute contains memorabilia honoring the attainment of voting rights. Its sister museum, the Ancient Africa Enslavement and Civil War Museum houses exhibits that depict historical, topical and provocative impacts and occurrences during slavery in America. The Edmund Pettus Bridge overlooking the Alabama River is the famous landmark that represents a pivotal point in voting rights. Tabernacle Baptist Church, a National Historic Landmark, served as a meeting place for civil rights leaders of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference who held one of its first mass meetings at this church.

In Montgomery, there also are will be events surrounding the 60th anniversary of the Montgomery Bus Boycott, began in December 1955, a few days after Rosa Parks was arrested for refusing to give up her seat on a bus so that a white man could sit. Montgomery is home to the Rosa Parks Museum, the Dexter Parsonage Museum and much more. Montgomery recently debuted a new Civil Heritage

The Selma to Montgomery March began March 7, 1965, when about 600 civil rights marchers headed east out of Selma on U.S. Route 80. They got only as far as the Edmund Pettus Bridge...

Trail downtown that unifies a large number of Civil War and Civil Rights historic sites and attractions.

Closer to home, Birmingham’s Civil Rights District is home to Kelly Ingram Park, a site where marchers and activists came together in protest; Sixteenth Street Baptist Church, where KKK members killed four young girls in 1963 and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute.

BCRI will commemorate the Selma to Montgomery March as well. From March 4 to June 28, BCRI will show the exhibit “Selma to Montgomery: A March for the Right to Vote – Photographs by Spider Martin” in the Woolfolk Gallery. On Thursday, March 5, there will be a Voting Rights Conference at BCRI, free to the public but registration is required.

Lori Pruitt is associate editor of Birmingham Parent.

Many Civil Rights movement events and attractions here in Alabama For information about travel, attractions and events: www.dreammarcheson.com www.selmaalabama.com www.visitingmontgomery.com www.montgomeryboycott.com http://alabama.travel/experience-alabama/civil-rights www.bcri.org

Marchers at the annual Selma Bridge Crossing Jubilee, held each March, cross the Edmund Pettus Bridge.

Photos courtesy of Selma and Dallas County Chamber of Commerce birminghamparent.com | 35

party perfect

Plan a “Royal” Baby Shower for the Mom-to-Be

By Brittany Sharp

As Valentine’s Day approaches, what better way than to celebrate with a party fit for a princess! A royal shower was recently the plan for local mommy-to-be Sade McClaney, inspired by beautiful Avondale Villa.

The venue looks like a vintage castle, and its atmosphere set the tone for the decorations. The goal was to create a soft , chic atmosphere that all of the guests would enjoy. “I’ve always said that when I had a baby shower, I didn’t want your typical fluff y shower,” McClaney says. “I really think that baby showers have evolved into beautiful celebrations that really take on a theme of their own.”

Using soft hues of pink, mint green and a dazzle of gold, the royal setting was created. Tables were set with beautiful vintage china, lush floral arrangements in gold vases, and an assortment of gold carriages and crowns. At the end of the tablescape sat a glamorous dessert bar with an array of treats. Dessert tables are becoming a big hit at events, as many of the treats are coordinated to match the theme.

Treats included a beautiful pintuck cake topped with a gold princess crown by local baker Kristal Bryant of K & J’s Elegant Pastries. To complement the cake, we added key lime cupcakes with mirror silhouette cupcake toppers, royal pecan tarts by another local vendor Baking Bandits, and pretzel wands.

The cool thing about the desserts was that two of the items were DIY. The cupcakes were made using an old family recipe, and the picks were ordered from Etsy. The pretzel wands were very easy to make using pretzels, pink chocolate and gold beads, with the beads tied with ribbon for a whimsical look.

Having an elegant party doesn’t have to be expensive and this shower proved just that. In addition to the DIY desserts, the favors were another inexpensive touch that left a big impression on guests. To match the royal theme, guests left with a vintage teacup to enjoy a cup of tea at home. The favor tags were handmade with the saying, “A Baby is Brewing.”

CUPCAKE TOPPERS: https://www.etsy.com/ conversations/340882484?from_tag=search.crown

Photos courtesy of Sharp Soirees 36 | birminghamparent | february 2015

CAKE DESIGN: http://www.kjselegantpastries.com Queen of Hearts Tarts: http://bakingbandits.com

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VOTE NOW in the 2015 Birmingham Parent’s Family Favorites Awards!

Visit www.birminghamparent.com to vote online for your favorite party place,

kids meal, toy store, radio station & more.

YOU CAN ALSO BE ENTERED IN A RANDOM DRAWING FOR A GREAT WILDERNESS AT THE SMOKIES PRIZE PACKAGE! Must vote in at least 20 categories for your survey to be counted and also put into the random drawing for a two-night stay for 4 people at Wilderness at the Smokies in Sevierville, TN. This vacation will include a dinner show at Lumberjack Feud.

Tell us Your Family’s Favorites & WIN! Cast your vote online at www.birminghamparent.com from Decmeber 2014-April 22, 2015

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VOTING ENDS AT MIDNIGHT ON APRIL 22, 2015. Look for the family favorites award winners in the June 2014 issue of Birmingham Parent. You must vote in at least 20 categories for your vote to count, and if you wish to be entered in the random drawing, we must receive your complete contact info. Information may be shared with prize sponsors.

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38 | birminghamparent | february 2015

daily calendar of events

highlights

Calendar sponsored by

Fairy Tale Ball is at the Roy Downs Calera Public Library on 21 The Feb. 21. Admission is FREE. The event runs twice, from 1-3pm, preschool ball; 5-7pm, evening ball. Dance with princes and princesses, hang out with superheroes and enjoy a hayride in the enchanted forest.

22

Feb. 10, learn about George Washington Carver and 10 On Madam C.J. Walker at “Brains and Beauty: Black History Month Program” from 5:30-7:15pm at the Albert L. Scott Library in Alabaster.

See “The Clever George Washington Carver” on Feb. 21 at 10am, 11:30am at the Alys Stephens Center. ArtPlay’s talented young actors of the “Make It Happen Performing Ensemble” presents the life of Alabama native Carver. Tickets, www.

AlysStephens.org

21

Alabama is home to several species of birds of prey.

Learn about Identifying Birds of Prey on Sun., Feb. 22 at 2pm, Alabama Wildlife Center at Oak Mountain State Park.

14

Don’t miss Birmingham Parent’s annual Camp Expo 2015, now back at Brookwood Village, on Feb. 14, from 10am-3pm. Admission is FREE. BIRMINGHAM PARENT’S

2015

birminghamparent.com | 39

daily calendar of events

february 1 Sunday Southeastern Outings Dayhike 1pm, Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve. Moderate 4-mile hike in the 1000-plus acre preserve, one of the largest in-city nature preserves in the country. Bring picnic lunch and drink. Wellbehaved, carefully supervised children age 8 and up welcome.

Information, Dan Frederick, 205631-4680, seoutings@bellsouth. net.

3 Tuesday The Essentials: Bebop” featuring Branford Marsalis 7 pm, UAB’s Alys Stephens Center. Hosted by UAB Artistin-Residence Eric Essix, “The Essentials” is the ASC’s original, innovative series devoted to honoring the rich history of jazz. This installment surveys the unique history of bebop’s history, music and artists. Tickets $39.50.

205-975-2787, www.AlysStephens.org.

4 Wednesday UAB Music Student Recital 12:20pm, UAB’s Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. Featuring advanced students in the Department of Music, with Chris Steele, pianist. 205-934-7376 or visit www.uab.edu/cas/music.

FREE.

5 Thursday The March Quilts 5:30pm, Birmingham Museum of Art. All ages invited to join community sewing days, a project to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery March in 1965 for voting rights.

FREE. 6 Friday UAB Music: Song cycles by Gabriel Fauré 7:30pm, UAB’s Mary Culp

Calendar sponsored by

Hulsey Recital Hall. Featuring pianist Chris Steele, with soprano Kathleen Farrar Buccleugh and baritone Paul Mosteller. 205934-7376, www.uab.edu/cas/ music. FREE.

Full Life Ahead Family Weekend Children’s Harbor, February 6-8.

The Full Life Ahead Foundation loves taking families with teens and young people who have disAbilities on family weekend.

It is a special mix of fun, learning and sharing. Teens and young adults have their own programs, and there are separate educational sessions for parents. Each session is designed specifically for the families that are attending. Information, Tammy Moore, 205-439-6534, TammyMoore@ FullLifeAhead.org, www.FullLifeAhead.org.

Pointe Ball 2015 6:30pm, The Club, Birmingham.

Pointe Ball is one of Birmingham’s most anticipated black-tie events and celebrates The Alabama Ballet’s season. All proceeds benefit the ballet’s outreach and education programs. For tickets, 205-3221259, maryreynolds@alabamaballet.org.

7 Saturday Bart’s Art Cart 11am-1pm, Birmingham Museum of Art. Drop into this art program for kids and families to make art with Bart! www.artsbma.org.

FREE. Magic City Chess U 10am-12pm, Birmingham Public Library, second floor. Learn to play or improve your play in these free classes. 205-8622018, http://magiccitychessu. wix.com/magiccitychessu.

FREE. Southeastern Outings Dayhike 10am, Oak Mountain State Park.

Walk around most of the larg-

est lake in the park, the lower fishing lake. All of this hike will be off the color-coded trails and will have ups and downs. Wellbehaved, properly supervised children age 8 and up welcome.

Depart at 10am from the parking area across the main park road from the North Trailhead. $3 per person for park admission ($1 seniors) plus a picnic lunch and drink. David Shepherd, 205240-4681.

Kuna Karamu: African Culture Festival Noon-4pm, Birmingham Museum of Art. Go on a scavenger hunt, weave your own kente cloth, or sculpt an African pot.

Enjoy authentic African food, music, and fashion, and more with the whole family. FREE. Fresh Air Family – Eagle Watching Adventure 1pm, Lake Guntersville State Park Lodge. See live eagles and other birds of prey in a program with the American Eagle Foundation. Then go on a field trip to see eagles in their nests and hunting for their babies. If you want to stay late and have dinner at the lodge, Becky Collier of the Coosa River Science School will present another live eagle program. Meet at 11am at Birmingham Botanical Gardens or 1pm at the lodge. $5 donation per family requested. Register, Events@FreshAirFamily.org.

Beaker Bash 5-8pm, McWane Center. This family-friendly fundraising event will feature problem solving skills and more. Proceeds benefit statewide science education programs and makes field trips affordable for thousands of students. Tickets, www.mcwane. org.

8 Sunday Southeastern Outings Second Sunday Dayhike 1pm, Oak Mountain State Park.

Enjoy a moderate 4 mile walk.

Parts of this hike may be off the color-coded trails. There will be some ups and downs. Well-behaved, properly supervised children age eight and up able to complete the hike are welcome.

Depart at 1pm from the Oak Mountain Park office parking lot. $3 per person park admission, $1 seniors. Bring a drink. Edd Spencer, 205-317-5868.

10 Tuesday Brains and Beauty: Black History Month Program 5:30-7:15pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. This program reveals how entrepreneurs George Washington Carver and Madam C.J. Walker used their scientific brains to improve the beauty and health industry.

Presented by science educators Winfield and Elinor Burks, who have co-produced more than 50 programs in the metro area.

They will guide youngsters as they make their own beauty product. Grades 3-up. Register, 205-664-6822.]

Alabama Ballet Second Tuesday 6pm drinks, 6:30am program, Alabama Ballet Center for Dance. A behind-the-scenes look at the ballet’s upcoming production of Cinderella.

205-322-4300. FREE.

12 Thursday Pete the Cat Book Club: St. Valentine’s Day Edition 4 pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Boys and girls 5 years old and older can join in the fun of cool cats, reading, and making Valentine cards during our meeting. Children age 6 and younger must be with an adult.

Register, 205-664-6822.

The Jung Trio 7 pm. Alys Stephens Center.

One of today’s most notable rising young ensembles, this

Events may change after publication, deadline; please phone ahead to confirm important information. The deadline for submitting calendar items for the March 2015 issue is Feb. 3. Mail calendar items to: Calendar, Birmingham Parent, 3590B Hwy 31 S #289, Pelham, AL 35124; fax to 987-7600; e-mail to calendar@BirminghamParent.com; or enter directly to the online calendar at www.birminghamparent.com. Entries added online after the print deadline will not appear in the print version. Information cannot be accepted over the phone. Birmingham Parent publishes a calendar 11 times a year. January events are included in the December issue.

Guidelines: Birmingham Parent’s calendar is designed to be a resource and service to the community and our readers. Events which are open to the public, fund-raisers, free classes, etc., are events that may be included in our monthly calendar. We reserve the right to reject any event or listing due to rules or space restrictions. For questions regarding calendar entries, call 987-7700.

40 | birminghamparent | february 2015

classical group features sisters Jennie on piano; Ellen on violin; and Julie on cello. Tickets $32.50. 205-975-2787, www.

AlysStephens.org.

13 Friday Asbury Giggles & Grace Consignment Sale 8am-6pm, Asbury United Methodist Church. Two-day sale includes children’s clothes, youth clothes, toys, books, shoes, baby furniture and more.

UAB Department of Music’s Brass Symposium Alys Stephens Center and various UAB venues. Two-day symposium features Chris Martin, principal trumpet of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

205-934-2265.

Alabama School of Fine Arts presents Native Son 7:30pm, ASFA Dorothy Jemison Day Theater. ASFA’s Theatre Arts Department presents Richard Wright’s “Native Son” about a young man raised in the poor, south side of Chicago who discovers his destiny is as predictable as the culture and circumstances that rob him of his youth.

Presented in conjunction with Black History Month. Tickets, $10 for adults, $5 for children. 205458-0360, www.djdtheater.org.

14 Saturday

Valentine’s Day Asbury Giggles & Grace Consignment Sale 8am-1pm, Asbury United Methodist Church, see February 13.

Birmingham Parent’s Camp Expo 2015 10am-3pm, Brookwood Village.

Now in its 22nd year! Find out what your kids want to do this summer – whether it’s away camp, day camp, a summer specialty camp or workshop, or something else. Great giveaways, local entertainment and more. Sponsored by ABC 33/40, 106.9 The Eagle, and Joseph Bruno Montessori Academy. Information, 205-987-7700, info@ birminghamparent.com.

Magic City Chess U 10am-12pm, Birmingham Public Library, second floor, see February 7. FREE.

Bart’s Art Cart 11am-1pm, Birmingham Museum of Art, see February 7. FREE.

16 Monday

UAB Festival of Brass 2 pm, Alys Stephens Center.

Featuring the UAB Brass Choir under the direction of James Zingara, with ensembles and several honors brass ensembles of area high school students.

The event will conclude with a spectacular mass finale comprising more than 100 performers.

205-934-7376, www.uab.edu/ cas/music. FREE.

17 Tuesday

Second Saturday Space Safaris: Love Stories in the Stars 4pm, 5pm, Jacksonville State University Planetarium, Jacksonville. Travel through space and explore planet Earth during these exciting programs for families and children. $5 adults, $2 children; pre-registration encouraged. 256-782-8010, www. jsu.edu/epic.

Alabama School of Fine Arts presents Native Son 7:30pm, ASFA Dorothy Jemison Day Theater, see February 13.

15 Sunday Southeastern Outings Dayhike 2pm, Red Mountain Park. This recreational, public park has more than 1,200 acres – an area larger than New York’s Central Park! Explore the park on hikes of differing lengths and distances, from 30 minutes to two hours. Arrive 15 minutes before the tours depart to meet guides.

Bring water and wear good walking shoes or boots. Wellbehaved, properly supervised children age 7 and up welcome.

Depart 2pm at the dead end of Frankfurt Drive off Lakeshore Parkway. Mike Mahon, 205-7061576, www.redmountainpark.org.

“Alabama Sings!”

7:30pm, UAB’s Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. A benefit concert featuring singers from throughout Alabama, including voice professors from UAB, Samford University and Birmingham-Southern College.

205-934-7376, www.uab.edu/ cas/music. FREE. Alabama School of Fine Arts presents Native Son 2:30pm, ASFA Dorothy Jemison Day Theater, see February 13.

Presidents’ Day Lego League 6-6:45pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster, Kids of all ages can play with Legos of all sizes.

Children 6 and younger must be with an adult.

18 Wednesday UAB Music Student Recital 12:20pm, UAB’s Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. Featuring advanced students in the Department of Music, with Chris Steele, pianist. 205-934-7376, www.uab.edu/cas/music. FREE.

19 Thursday “Mother’s Day 1961: The Freedom Rides in Alabama” Noon, Anniston Museum. Laura Caldwell, Birmingham Civil Rights Institute archivist, will make a presentation recounting the freedom riders, two groups of passengers who boarded different buses in Atlanta for separate trips to Birmingham to test Southern states’ compliance with federal interstate transportation laws. Free to attend; to pre-order a McAllister’s Deli lunch for $10 (by Feb. 17), call 256-237-6766, x302 or x303, or bring your own lunch.

20 Friday Alabama Ballet presents Cinderella 7:30pm, Wright Center, Samford University. A timeless tale with elegant dancing, comical miming, spectacular costumes and scenery. All ages. Tickets, www. alabamaballet.org.

21 Saturday “The Clever George Washington Carver.”

10am, 11:30am, Alys Stephens Center. ArtPlay’s talented young actors of the “Make It Happen Performing Ensemble” presents the life of Alabama native Carver. Written and directed

by ArtPlay teaching artist Alicia Johnson-Williams, this entertaining and educational play uses poetry, song and dance to pay tribute to this remarkable man,

his life and work, and his infinite contributions to science and agriculture. Tickets, $9 children, $11 adults. 205-975-2787, www.

AlysStephens.org.

Big Machines Day 10am-3pm, McWane Science Center. Spend a constructive day with some big machines including backhoes, excavators, dump trucks, loaders, dozers and cranes! Sponsored

by CraneWorks. Included with admission to McWane. www. mcwane.org.

daily calendar of events

Calendar sponsored by

Black Heritage Festival 10am-3:30pm, Anniston Museum, Anniston. Free admission at both museums! Now in its 35th year, the museum’s festival continues to shine as one of Alabama’s oldest continuing black history celebrations.

Vendors, food and more. FREE. Free admission at both the Anniston Museum and the Berman Museum next door. www. annistonmuseum.org.

Free Classes from Magic City Chess U 10am-12pm, Birmingham Public Library, second floor, see February 7. FREE. Bart’s Art Cart 11am-1pm, Birmingham Museum of Art, see February 7.

The Fairy Tale Ball 1-3pm, preschool ball; 5-7pm, evening ball, Roy Downs/ Calera Public Library. Come experience the magic as your child’s favorite fairy tales come to life. Explore the Super Hero’s Universe. Slide down the chimney with the chimney sweeps.

Dance in the princess ballroom with all Anna, Elsa and other princesses! This is the largest of its kind in the state of Alabama.

Bring your dancing shoes and your imagination. Information, 205-668-7200, cityofcalera.org.

FREE. Alabama Ballet presents Cinderella 2:30pm, 7:30pm, Wright Center, Samford University, see February 20.

continued on the following page>> birminghamparent.com | 41

daily calendar of events

february UAB Department of Music’s Clarinet Symposium UAB Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall and other UAB venues.

Two-day symposium is held in conjunction with regional ClarFest events of the International Clarinet Association.

Information, 205-975-0558.

22 Sunday Identifying Birds of Prey: Tips, Tools and a Bird or Two! 2pm, Alabama Wildlife Center.

Alabama is home to several species. During this program, featuring live birds from the Alabama Wildlife Center and the Coosa River Science School, you will learn tips on how to identify buteos, falcons, kites, accipiters and owls. Bring your children and camera to capture the moment!

The March Quilts 1pm, Birmingham Museum of Art, see February 5. FREE.

Calendar sponsored by

Alabama Ballet presents Cinderella 2:30pm,7:30pm, Wright Center, Samford University, see February 20.

24 Tuesday UAB Wind Symphony and Symphony Band 7pm, Alys Stephens Center.

Conducted by Sue Samuels.

205-934-7376, www.uab.edu/ cas/music. FREE.

25 Wednesday Engineering Showcase 10am-5pm, McWane Science Center. Learn from experts in the field! Biomedical, civil, material, nuclear, mechanical, chemical, electrical and aerospace engineers will be on hand. www.mcwane.org.

27 Friday BAMOM Twice as Nice Consignment Sale 5-9pm, Zamora Shrine Temple,

Magic City Face Art

Irondale. Two-day sale. Gently used and in-season infant, children, juniors, maternity and adult clothing and shoes; baby equipment, toys, housewares, furniture and more. No children under the age of 10 allowed at Friday night sale because of large crowds expected. info@ bamom.org. FREE admission.

American Girls Club 4pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Girls age 7 and up can enter Addy’s world by taking part in an American Girls reader’s theatre. To mark Black History Month, we’ll read the play “Friendship and Freedom: A Play about Addy.” No memorizing will be necessary. The play is about Addy, age 9, of Philadelphia who has escaped from slavery in 1864. All children in the audience under age 7 must be with an adult. Register, 205-664-6822. FREE.

28 Saturday BAMOM Twice as Nice Sale 8am-noon, Zamora Shrine Temple, Irondale, see February 27.

Free Classes from Magic City Chess U 10am-12pm, Birmingham Public Library, second floor. Learn to play or improve your play in these free classes. 205-8622018, http://magiccitychessu. wix.com/magiccitychessu.

FREE. Chinese New Year Celebration 10-3:30pm, Berman Museum, Anniston. Welcome “The Year of the Sheep” with a variety of fun family activities, including storytelling and art demonstrations. FREE admission.

Bart’s Art Cart 11am-1pm, Birmingham Museum of Art, see February 7. FREE.

WANTED

GREAT OUTSIDE SALES REP 205-613-0443 www.magiccityfaceart.com

FACE PAINTIN G AT ITS FINES T

Evans Publishing LLC, DBA BIRMINGHAM PARENT is looking for a motivated individual who likes to help businesses market themselves to families for an outside sales account executive position. You must be driven, hard-working, dependable, work well independently, comfortable talking to strangers and making warm and cold calls, able to use web and Word-based programs for reporting and customer management, comfortable taking on the phone, and available to work at least 30 hours per week. Generous commission based pay with bonuses for success. Your success each month increases your paycheck! Flexible hours, but must be able to make sales calls in person, go to staff meetings and special events. Can sell print advertising, web, event and sponsorships. Advertising sales experience strongly preferred. Can work from home base, but not a “work from home” position.

E-mail your resume to carol@birminghamparent.com, or fax to 205-987-7600. Health insurance, dental and life insurance after 90-day successful probationary period.

carol@birminghamparent.com or fax 205-987-7600 42 | birminghamparent | february 2015

PHOTO COURTESY OF ALABAMA BALLET

SOUTHERN MUSEUM OF FLIGHT

n ALDRIDGE BOTANICAL GARDENS 3530 Lorna Road, Hoover. 205682-8019, www.aldridgegardens.com n ALABAMA JAZZ HALL OF FAME 1631 Fourth Ave. N., Birmingham. 205-254-2731, www.jazzhall.com n ALABAMA SCHOOL OF FINE ARTS 1800 Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd. n ALABAMA SPORTS HALL OF FAME 2150 Richard Arrington Blvd. N., Birmingham. 323-6665, www.ashof.org n ALABAMA WILDLIFE CENTER 100 Terrace Drive, Pelham. 205663-7930. www.awrc.org n ALBERT L SCOTT ALABASTER PUBLIC LIBRARY Tunes & Tales: Wednesdays at 3:30pm in Library Meeting Room Toddler Tales: Fridays at 10:30am in the Library Meeting Room Lego League:

Tuesdays 4-4:45pm 100 9th Street NW, Alabaster, AL, 35007. 205-664-6822, www.cityofalabaster.com/departments/library

n AMERICAN VILLAGE Highway 119, Montevallo.

205-665-3535, www.americanvillage.org n BARBER MOTORSPORTS PARK 6040 Barber Motorsports Parkway, Leeds. 205-298-9040, www.barbermotorsports.com n BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS Be sure to download the treasure map to take with you! www.bbgardens.org/documents/treasuremapforweb.pdf 2612 Lane Park Road, Birmingham. 205-414-3900, www.bbgardens.org n BIRMINGHAM CHILDREN’S THEATRE 1001 19th St. North, Birmingham, AL, 35203, 205-458-8181, www.bct123.org n BIRMINGHAM CIVIL RIGHTS INSTITUTE 16th St. N., Birmingham. 205328-9696, www.bcri.org

n BIRMINGHAM MUSEUM OF ART Small Treasures: Rembrandt, Vermeer, Hals, and Their Contemporaries. The exhibition, organized by the North Carolina Museum of Art and sponsored

by PNC, will feature works by the greatest masters of the Dutch and Flemish Golden Age. Small Treasures brings together 40 small-scale oil paintings, most of which are no more than ten inches in height, by 28 artists of the 17th century.

Through April 26.

2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., Birmingham. 205-2542565, www.artsbma.org n BIRMINGHAM ZOO In-park Special Attractions Giraffe Feeding & Keeper Chat, Saturday & Sunday 11am-12pm & 2-3pm, $3. See Griffin, the first giraffe born in a North American accredited Zoo in 2014!

Sea Lion Training, Daily 10am & 2pm Predator Zone, Saturday & Sunday 11:30am & 3:30pm 2630 Cahaba Road, Birmingham. 205-879-0409, www. birminghamzoo.com

n HEART OF DIXIE RAILROAD MUSEUM 1919 Ninth St., Calera. 205-6683435, www.hodrrm.org n MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER Mindbender Mansion. Mister E. and the Mindbender Society invite you to enter the wonderfully puzzling world of Mindbender Mansion, full of puzzles, brainteasers and interactive challenges. Adults and children will enjoy exercising their minds! Through June 15.

IMAX Movies: Mysteries of the Unseen World. High-speed and timelapse photography, electron microscopy and nanotechnology are just a few of the advancements in science that allow us to see a whole new universe of things, events, creatures and processes. See places on Earth that are beyond normal vision.

Island of Lemurs: Madagascar.

Morgan Freeman narrates this true story of nature’s greatest explorers – lemurs. It’s a spectacular journey to the remote and wondrous world of Madagascar.

200 19th St. N., Birmingham.

205-714-8300, www.mcwane.org.

daily calendar of events

events & attractions

n MOSS ROCK PRESERVE Preserve Parkway, Hoover. 205739-7141, www.hooveral.org. n OAK MOUNTAIN STATE PARK 200 Terrace Drive, Pelham.

205-620-2520, www.alapark.com. n RUFFNER MOUNTAIN NATURE CENTER 1214 81st St. S., Birmingham.

205-833-8264, www.ruffnermountain.org. n SOUTHERN MUSEUM OF FLIGHT 4343 73rd St. N., Birmingham.

205-833-8226, www.southernmuseumofflight.org n TANNEHILL IRONWORKS HISTORICAL STATE PARK 12632 Confederate Parkway, McCalla. 205-477-5711, www. tannehill.org n VULCAN PARK 1701 Valley View Drive, Birmingham. 205-933-1409, www.vulcanpark.org birminghamparent.com | 43

sponsored by

ask the specialist

How Can I Build Heart Healthy Family Habits?

By Joyce Koppang, MD

W

Joyce Koppang, MD, is a cardiologist at Cardiovascular Associates, a Brookwood Medical Partner.

44 | birminghamparent | february 2015

e are all creatures of habit. That’s why it is important to start healthy habits at a very young age. My mother was ahead of her time when she instilled in me and my siblings the importance of healthy eating and routine exercise.

I’ve now passed down those positive habits to my children.

Even though kids are naturally drawn to processed sugar and fatty foods, taste buds can quickly adapt to enjoy healthier options like fruits, nuts, whole grains and dairy. If your children start their lives eating these healthy foods, it’s natural for them to continue making heart-healthy choices as teenagers and into adulthood.

If you’re interested in improving your kids’ diet, make sure you improve your own as well. The easiest way for your kids’ diet to change is to change together with the whole family. Buy healthy food for everyone, because they probably won’t be able to resist cookies you’ve hidden in the pantry “just for mom and dad.”

It’s never too late to make simple switches to start eating healthier.

Start small and choose fruit instead of dessert, or avoid fried food one day a week. From there, you can continue to improve your family’s diet. One easy way to make a big difference in your kids’ (and your own) health is to replace sugar drinks and sodas with water. Don’t quit if you mess up one day, get right back into it! The key to changing your diet is persistence.

In addition to a healthy diet, regular physical activity keeps our hearts and bodies strong, so encourage your kids to exercise at least an hour every day. It teaches time management and also instills the importance of daily exercise, which will carry on with them through adulthood. When we exercise, our hearts get stronger and can deliver

If you’re interested in improving your kids’ diet, make sure you improve your own as well. The easiest way for your kids’ diet to change is to change together with the whole family. more oxygen to our bodies, helping us live longer, healthier lives. When my children are home from college, we spend family time at the gym and enjoy lots of heart healthy food.

This February is heart health awareness month, and a great time to begin making healthier choices.

So what are you waiting for? Set your family on track to live long, healthier lives.

BIRMINGHAM PARENT’S 5TH ANNUAL

SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2015, 10 A.M.-3 P.M. L I N C P O I N T AT U C P, H O M E W O O D Great information for parents and caregivers of children with special needs, from the cognitive to physically challenged, meeting with providers of special products and services, speakers to educate and inform, as well as after school activities, sports, education, camps and more! All under one roof! Fun zone, too, for children to enjoy.

PRESENTED BY

COME HEAR THESE SPEAKERS: 11 A.M. “When you Have a Special Needs Child – How to Navigate the System, Handle IEP Meetings and More – a PRIMER” - Lorraine Barnes, Alabama Parent Education Center AND 11 A.M. “Your Child’s Safety When They Have Special Needs” - Corporal Kent Smith with Project Lifesaver Alabama 11:30 A.M. - “the Able Act: What It Is and What It Isn’t” - Katherine N. Barr, Attorney at Law, Sirote & Permutt, PCT 12:30 P.M. “Estate planning for parents with disabled children, including Wills, Living Trusts, the need for guardianship provisions in case the parent(s) die, and special needs trusts and why they are critical” -Melanie Bradford, Melanie Bradford, Executive Director and Attorney at Alabama Family Trust MORE BEING SCHEDULED - a complete list will be available at www.birminghamparent.com.

SPONSORED BY

Booths available for nominal registration fee for qualifying special needs providers. Sponsorships also available for any business or service. For booth information or sponsorship info call 205-987-7700, e-mail carol@ birminghamparent.com or visit www.birminghamparent.com.

poetry party

Valentine Poems The If-You-Were Poem

By Charles Ghigna

If you were a shining star And I were your midnight, I’d let you shine above me, You’d be my only light.

I N S T R U C T I O N S : 1. Think of a person you like.

2. Compare that person to some thing (inanimate object).

3. Now compare yourself to some thing associated with the first object.

If you were a grand piano And I were a sweet love song, I’d let your keys tickle and tease My melody all day long.

If you were a brand new kite And I were a ball of string, I’d hold you tight with all my might So we could fly all spring!

Charles Ghigna - Father Goose® created the If-YouWere Poem as a fun way of introducing metaphor to young poets.

If you were the pages of my book And I were reading you, I’d read as slow as I could go So I never would get through.

This poem contains 4 lines (quatrain) and 2 rhymes (lines 2 & 4). It has two comparisons (metaphors): one for the “I” of the poem and one for the “you.”

Now it’s YOUR turn to create Valentine poems!

These poems make great Valentines.

You can write them for your friends and family.

You can even make a little book of them and decorate it with your drawings.

By Charles Ghigna

Here’s a Valentine treat to serve at your Poetry Party!

Valentine Cake

By Charles Ghigna

There’s nothing like a Valentine’s cake— A heart that’s delicious and easy to make.

A square pan, a round pan— twice the fun!

Bake batter in two shapes, then make them one: Cut the round cake in half to start; The halves will make the top of the heart.

Put one on each side of your tilted square.

Spread on the icing.

You’re almost there.

Use icing to write “I love you.”

There’s only one more step to do: Now that you know how to prepare it, Next comes the best part — time to share it!

For more poetry activities, visit The Father Goose website at www.fathergoose.com Want to submit YOUR poems for publication? Parents, Here are some magazines that publish poems written by children: www.ckmagazine.org, www.magicdragonmagazine.com and www.cricketmag.com 46 | birminghamparent | february 2015

Spring Break Camp AND ICE ARENA MARCH 30 TO APRIL 3

Camp is $250 for the week, 8am-4pm, ages 5-11 welcome.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Three on ice sessions per day, stretch class, off-ice jump class, arts and crafts, a skating exhibition, a t-shirt and more.

Try Hockey For Free!

SAT, FEBRUARY 21ST 2015 1 PM TO 2 PM The Try Hockey For Free Clinic is designed for children to experience ice hockey for the first time and learn the basics of the sport in a fun, safe environment.

REGISTRATION: To pre register please visit www.tryhockeyforfree.com enter zip code and click on the map pin for details

For further information please contact Pelham Civic Complex and Ice Arena Director of Hockey Randy Murphy at randy@pelhamonline.com EQUIPMENT: Skates, Sticks and Helmets will be provided for the children as needed but are recommended to bring their own if possible as equipment is limited or at 256.348.7984

PELHAM CIVIC COMPLEX ICE ARENA 500 AMPHITHEATER RD. PELHAM, AL 35124

Do you know what your kids want to do this summer?

Join the Brookwood Village Mobile Club between January 26 and February 15, 2015 for a chance to win a $250 Brookwood Village gift card!

Text PARENT to 444222 to enter!

NOW ITS 22 IN n YEAR d

Max 6 messages per month. Message & data rates may apply. Terms & Conditions at www.pocketstop. com/brookwood-village-terms-conditions. Text STOP to 444222 to stop. Text HELP to 444222 for help.

SPONSORED BY

SAT, FEB. 14, 2015 - 10am-3pm

NOW BACK AT BROOKWOOD VILLAGE - FREE ADMISSION Booths & Sponsorships available - call now! 205-987-7700 or carol@birminghamparent.com